Cartadania

Cartadania, officially known as the Federative Republic of Cartadania, is a located on the Caridon Peninsula of Sarpedon, with territories spanning across the globe. Bordered by Caphiria along its only land borders, the country has an area of 4122251 km2, making it the fifth-largest nation in the world. With a population of approximately 378 million people, it is the second-most populous nation in Sarpedon and ninth worldwide. Cartadania's largely features  zones, particularly in the sheltered bays, which are tempered by cooler coastal currents, tributaries, and the Carina Bay. In addition to its mainland territories, Cartadania also includes insular areas near Crona, such as the state of Solemia, and Polynesia, including the state of Lotoa, as well as Alshar, with the territory of Haujão. The country also has territories in Sarpedon, including Providência, Santa Domenica, and Santa Elena.

Cartadania is a, that owes its success to a robust mixed economy and strong economic growth over the years. Its large size has allowed it to maintain stability in the region, and its citizens enjoy a very high level of human development, including the second-longest life expectancy in the world, surpassed only by Burgundie. Cartadania is a major player in global economic, military, cultural, and diplomatic affairs, and is widely considered a global power. As of 2032, the country's economy is the fourth-largest in the world by both nominal GDP and GDP (PPP), with a total value of approximately $28.5 trillion. The country's economy is also one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, due in large part to reduced barriers to entry in the economy and relaxing tax laws. The national development bank of Cartadania plays an essential role in the country's economic growth, and its diplomatic outreach and support programs to help emerging and young economies have earned it worldwide recognition.

Cartadania has played a key role in the formation and membership of various international organizations, including ARGUS, the Community of Lusophone Nations, the League of Nations, and the Union of Sarpedonian States. Additionally, the country was also a member of the now-defunct Levantia and Odoneru Treaty Association. As a great power in Sarpedon, Cartadania asserts its global influence and is viewed by some analysts as having the potential to attain superpower status in the future. Moreover, Cartadania is renowned as a major breadbasket, being a leading producer of crops such as coffee, oranges, and sugarcane, particularly in its more agrarian south. In fact, the country has held the title of the world's largest coffee producer for at least the past 270 years. These agricultural industries have played a significant role in the country's economic growth and international trade relationships.

Cartadania's diverse cultural heritage reflects influences from various groups, including indigenous peoples, Latin settlers, Taínean migrants, and immigrants from Crona and the Polynesian Sea. This has resulted in one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse countries in the world at the personal level, while still maintaining a distinctive national identity overall. As one of the world's 17 megadiverse countries, Cartadania boasts a rich biodiversity, with its territory encompassing the Satherian rainforest, tropical grassland, and coastlines along several major seas as well as high-altitude areas with markedly cooler climates. Its dense biodiversity makes it one of the most biodiverse countries per square kilometer in the world.

Pre-Caphirian Cartadania
The pre-Caphirian era of Cartadania, spanning from around 9000 BC to 370 BC, represents a crucial phase characterized by the transition from prehistory to ancient history. During this epoch, indigenous cultures, marked by intricate societal structures, agricultural advancements, and distinct societies, flourished. The Mandera River region, particularly inhabited by the Adonerii, served as the cradle of Cartadania's early human habitation, leading to the establishment of various coastal communities, like modern-day Valorica. The adoption of agriculture, featuring crops like pineapple, cacão, and cassava, fundamentally transformed Adonerii from the intermingling with indigenous lifestyles, paving the way for surplus food production. Diverse societies, including the Ettian, Linaca, Lombards, and Veronese, emerged with unique religious, symbolic, and artistic traditions, contributing to the complexity of Cartadania's indigenous civilization. In the 8th century BC, the Ettian civilization reached its zenith, influencing neighboring societies and leaving an enduring legacy of artistic and architectural achievements. The arrival of Caphirian settlers around 370 BC marked a transformative moment, bringing together indigenous populations and initiating a cultural blending that would shape the future of Cartadania. Despite occasional conflicts, this period set the stage for the amalgamation of cultures and the dawn of a new chapter in Cartadania's history.

Caphirian colonization
The Caphirian colonization period in Cartadania, commencing around 370 BC, marks a significant juncture that bridged the ancient indigenous cultures of the region with the impact of the Caphirian imperium. These early Caphirian explorers, often referred to as 'terra quaesitores,' embarked on a challenging journey into the uncharted territory of the Caridon Peninsula. Overcoming formidable geographical barriers, dense tropical forests, and diverse wildlife, these pioneers gradually expanded their territorial presence along the coastal regions. Their encounters with indigenous societies, including the prominent Ettian and Caridian groups, initiated a dynamic cultural exchange that laid the groundwork for a distinct Cartadanian identity.

The momentum of colonization persisted into the Lombard Valley in 704 AD, introducing new challenges posed by rugged terrain and dense forests. By the 11th century, under the rule of Imperator Darius, the eastern Caridon Peninsula coalesced into the geo-political entity of Lusia, divided into nine regions across five provinces. Each province, including Alexandria, Verona, Sacilium, Regio Iordas, and Regio Carina, contributed to the diverse cultural tapestry that defines modern Cartadania. Notably, the Fortuna Isles, which would later become São Ricardo, maintained a distinct identity and a history dating back to indigenous habitation, serving as a crucial crossroads for navigators and retaining its independent self-governance amidst the waves of change.

Struggle for independence
The period of Cartadania's struggle for independence, spanning the late 16th to early 17th centuries, was marked by political unrest, separatist movements, and the eventual emergence of a new, independent state. Rooted in growing discontent with distant Caphirian rule, particularly during the transition from the principate to the Dominate era, this period witnessed significant developments. The Verona regio of Lusia, feeling marginalized under Caphirian governance, passed the Vermilion Act in the 15th century, asserting autonomy and a distinct identity but was ultimately subdued. This act became a catalyst for similar actions in other provinces like Alexandria and Sancti. Imperator Legarus attempted constitutional changes to address regional tensions but was challenged by separatist movements.

The Great Schism of 1615 and internal changes in Caphiria further fueled separatist forces. The Maresian Revolt in 1623 and the 1626 seizure of Saleria marked pivotal moments. The Compactum Caridonis agreement in 1630 granted Cartadania, and by association, Vachena, independence but the Vachenan ties to Venceia posed logistical challenges due to disjointed territorial borders caused by Cartadania.

On September 1630, what would become Cartadania officially seceded, initially as the Caridon Federation and later renamed as the Caridon Federal Republic in October 1630, emphasizing federalism and self-governance principles. The ratification of its constitution in the same month solidified its status as a sovereign state, setting the stage for its unique cultural and political development.

Geography
Cartadania occupies 4122251 km2 of northern Sarpedon in a region known as the Caridon Peninsula, the only country that now exists in this region. Along its northern boundary, Cartadania occupies around 65% of Sarpedon's coastline on the Odoneru Ocean. It also has coasts along the Urlazian Sea, as well as the Kindreds and Taínean Seas, with territory in the Sea of Orixtal, Sea of Capelan, and Polynesian Sea. It's only modern-day land boundary is with Caphiria, which borders it along the south and east, though it historically also shared borders with Pelaxia.

Its territory includes a number of islands, atolls, and archipelagic regions in Alshar, Crona, and Polynesia, as well as near its metropolitan territory off the coasts of Sarpedon, such as Haujão, Lotoa, and Providência. It is the ninth-largest country by land area and the second-largest in Sarpedon, after Caphiria. It spans four time zones; from UTC−5 comprising the state of Porta Bianca to UTC−4 spanning Santarém and Bahia, as well as the two major islands of Aveiro, to UTC−3 in much of mainland Cartadania (national time) and UTC−2 in the eastern states on Urlazio, as well as São Ricardo.

The highest point by elevation in Cartadania is Monte Nero at 3851 m. Located in the Ursa Mountains as part of the Ursa Formation, it is roughly 1000 m taller than the second-tallest peak, Mount Alesso, which is located in the state of Trentino. The lowest point in Cartadania is Brink's Point Lake, a collapsed caldera in northern São Andreas that sits -71.6 m below sea level.

Climate
The climate of Cartadania is characterized for being largely tropical with strong Mediterranean zones presenting variations within several natural regions and depending on the altitude, temperature, humidity, winds, and rainfall. The diversity of climate zones in Cartadania is characterized by having tropical rainforests, savannas, steppes, deserts, and mountain climates.

Mountain climate is one of the unique features of the Aegis, Turian, and Ursa mountain ranges and other high altitude reliefs where climate is determined by elevation. Below 1000 m in elevation is the warm altitudinal zone, where temperatures are above 24 C. About 82.5% of the country's total area lies in the warm altitudinal zone. The temperate climate altitudinal zone located between 1001 - 2000 m is characterized for presenting an average temperature ranging between 17 and 24 C. The cold climate is present between 2001 - 3000 m and the temperatures vary between 12 and 17 C. Beyond the cold land lie the alpine conditions of the forested zone and then the treeless grasslands of the charnecas. Above 4,000 m, where temperatures are below freezing, the climate is glacial, a zone of permanent snow and ice, though this condition is rare, even at the highest of Cartadania's peaks.

Biodiversity and environment
The Cartadanian ecology is and the country is thought to have the largest diversity of flora and fauna outside of Crona (however, this measure does include its Cronan territories). The megadiversity is in large part due to the varied geography and climate, which in turns causes a large variation in biomes available for ecological development. Many of the species have found themselves becoming symbols of the state and territorial governments where they are found. The Harpy eagle is both the national bird and the national land animal of Cartadania, while the is the national marine mammal. Cartadania is home to 53,000 known species of plants, 3,000 species of freshwater fish, and nearly 700 species of mammals. It also has one of the highest counts of bird and reptile species on the planet, at 1,800 and 740, respectively. Fungi are very prevalent throughout the many regions but the exact species count is unknown. Researchers estimate that Cartadania supports a rich and diverse array of plant and animal species, with a potential total nearing four million, primarily composed of invertebrates. The larger mammal population includes carnivorous species such as pumas, jaguars, ocelots, bush dogs, and foxes, as well as herbivores like peccaries, tapirs, anteaters, sloths, opossums, and armadillos. The southwestern region is particularly abundant in deer populations, and Cartadania's various rainforests host a wide variety of New World monkey species. Cartadania boasts an extensive network of natural reserves, including 51 national parks and numerous other federally administered parks, forests, and wilderness zones. These collectively encompass the majority of government-owned land, emphasizing conservation efforts, although a small fraction is allocated for oil and gas extraction, with military activities utilizing approximately 0.86% of the total land area.

Environmental concerns have occupied a growing position on Cartadania's national agenda since 1984, gaining even more prominence following the significant 2003 Escondido Point Oil Spill. These matters encompass a range of topics, including debates surrounding oil and nuclear energy usage, strategies for mitigating air and water pollution, the economic ramifications of wildlife protection initiatives, challenges related to logging and deforestation, and Cartadania's international contributions to the global effort against climate change. Various federal and state agencies play essential roles in shaping policies and hosting discussions related to these concerns, with a particular focus on coastal regions.

One of the central entities involved in environmental stewardship is the Department of Environmental Integrity (DEI or DIA), established by presidential decree in 1984. The concept of wilderness has substantially influenced the management of public lands in Cartadania since the 1960s, leading to the implementation of numerous federal regulations and legislative acts designed to conserve and safeguard natural areas. The Endangered Species Act of 1940 is a cornerstone of these efforts, aiming to safeguard threatened and endangered species along with their habitats. These endeavors are vigilantly overseen by the DEI's Bureau of Game, Wildlife, and Inland Fisheries.

Government
Cartadania is a, ,  with a tradition of liberalism, and an egalitarian political ideology. Federal legislative power is vested in the National Congress consisting of the Senate and Chamber of Emissaries, which together form the legislative body. It makes federal law, declares war, approves treaties, has the power of the purse, and has the power of impeachment, by which it can remove sitting members of the government. The Cartadanian political system operates under a framework laid out in the 1630 constitution, with major revisions in the early 18th century, and all members of Congress have been directly elected since its introduction. Currently, federal law sets a minimum of three senators per state, while the number of Emissaries is dependent on the population. As of 1834, this number has been fixed at no more than 535, with 534 seats currently active and one permanently suspended (formerly belonging to Bicariana). Amendments generally require a two-thirds majority of both the Senate and the Chamber of Emissaries; the fundamental principles of the constitution, as expressed in the articles guaranteeing human dignity, the separation of powers, the federal structure, and the rule of law, are valid in perpetuity. The legislative bodies in each political entity are the main source of law in Cartadania. The President of Cartadania is both head of state and head of government of the Union and is elected for a four-year term, with the possibility of re-election for a second successive term. The current president is Anteros Ballas of the Social Democracy Party, former governor of the state of Maresia. The President appoints the Secretaries of each federal department (except Veteran Affairs, which is actually appointed by the Secretary of Defense), who assist in government. Since 1757, the party system has been dominated by the Social Democracy Party and the United Conservative Party, with occasional one-offs from the Progressistas Party. So far every president since 1759 has been a member of one of these parties (the Partido Conservador was the predecessor to the UCP) or in a coalition alignment with them..

The judiciary of Cartadania consists of the Supreme Court and lower federal courts, whose judges are now appointed by the incumbent bench with Senate and presidential approval, though the president can make recommendations from courts throughout the country. It interprets laws and overturns those it finds unconstitutional, like any other branch of government, but the degree of autonomy granted to the courts via has allowed the interpretation of law to sometimes result in the courts acting more as a legislative body. On more than one occurrence, the supreme court has ordered the other branches to comply with a decision its bench has made, and historically, it has very rarely been challenged.

According to the World Democracy Index, Cartadania ranked first in 2020, a position it had not held since 2000. With regard to the freedoms and laws of Cartadania, the country is seen as a "full democracy" with a high degree of freedom and autonomy. It is considered to be one of the most stable countries in the world, and its citizens often rank as some of the world's happiest.

Administrative divisions
Cartadania is, at the broadest level, divided into thirty-three states and five territories, one of which is the federal capital territory of Alahuela. These entities serve as the primary geographical and political units, each with its own constitution and government. States and territories possess varying degrees of autonomy and self-governance, allowing them to enact laws and policies tailored to their unique circumstances. Within states and territories, further administrative divisions exist, reflecting Cartadania's commitment to decentralized governance. The names and nomenclature of these divisions vary across regions. Counties, known as "comarcas" in most areas, are the most common units and serve as administrative regions within states and territories. In some jurisdictions, counties are referred to as parishes, municípios, or merindades. Each of these divisions has specific responsibilities and authorities, often aligned with judicial, educational, and infrastructural functions. In addition to county-level divisions, Cartadania further refines its administrative structure with municipalities, towns, villages, and census-designated places (CDPs). Cities and towns are often distinguished by population size and urban characteristics. Villages, although similar in nature, typically lack general-purpose local government. CDPs, established for census purposes, may have named places and limited local services but do not possess a general-purpose local government. Alahuela is a federated independent city that serves as the capital of Cartadania and is equal in power and status to the states. The states and five territories (Alahuela, Haujão, Providência, Santa Domenica, and Santa Elena) choose the President of the Republic. Congressional districts are reapportioned among the states following each centennial Census of Population. Each state then draws single-member districts to conform with the census apportionment.

While not official governmental entities, Cartadania recognizes nine cultural and historical regions. Eight of these are metropolitan regions, encompassing groups of states and territories with similar characteristics. The ninth region, known as the Periferia Insular (lit. 'Insular Outlying') region, comprises distant states and territories, each with its distinct features and challenges. The Lusia region is the largest by both population and land area, covering 1106398 km2 with a population of 179.5 million (188.9 million when counting Tanoa), while the Satheria region is the smallest metropolitan region by area at 118389.5 km2 and the Etracia region is the least populous metropolitan region, with 8.522 million people. The Periferia Insular is technically the smallest and least populous region overall, comprising the states of Lotoa and Solemia, as well as the territory of Haujão, with 8173.5 km2 in area and a population of 3.972 million.

The governments of the states have jurisdiction over their rules and regulations (as long as they do not conflict with federal law) and share sovereignty with the federal government. Some states utilize a specific set of shared code rules, and consequently, may be associated together. For example, the Commonwealth states–Lombardia, Maresia, Porta Bianca, Solemia, Verona, and Victoria–share a basic law framework commonly, but informally, known as the Commonwealth Code (, and because these states tend to have a policy of zero-tolerance regarding intentional crimes, the "Commonwealth" states are sometimes thought to all be stricter. However, the title "Commonwealth" is one purely of choice that originated during the end of the Ano Vermelho, and holds no true political value.

The territories operate in equal weight to the states but, historically, lacked the degree of autonomy afforded to the states, a line that is becoming more blurred as years progress. Territories are semi-autonomous regions with their own charters and codes of law, but do not possess constitutions of their own, and as a result operate at the will of the federal constitution. Therefore, a territory may not codify, with the intent to undermine, any regulation or law brought into force by congress. Even if that law is then devolved to the states, the decisions of Congress will continue to stand (except where struck down or challenged by a federal court). In every other aspect, the governments of the territories are nearly identical to those of the states.

Law
The Constitution of Cartadania is the supreme law of the country and consists of written text and unwritten conventions. The Constitution Act affirmed governance based on congressional precedent and divided powers between the federal and state governments in a system of parallel sovereignty. The Constitution guarantees basic rights and freedoms that usually cannot be over-ridden by any government—though a notwithstanding clause allows Congress and the state legislatures to override certain sections of the Constitution for a period of five years.

Cartadania has a law system based on Urcean Common law, but some states (i.e., Bahia and São Andreas) operate under civil law based on Caphiric law. Criminal law is primarily a federal responsibility but is not truly uniform throughout Cartadania as many laws may fall to the states. Law enforcement, including criminal courts, is officially a state responsibility, conducted by state and municipal police forces, though federal courts do prosecute criminal matters as well.

The Supreme Court is Cartadania's responsible for constitutional matters, with the power of judicial review. It generally hears appeals from the courts of appeals (and sometimes state courts), operating under discretionary review, which means that the Supreme Court can choose which cases to hear, by granting writs of. Consequently, there is generally no basic right of appeal that extends automatically all the way to the Supreme Court. In some situations (e.g., lawsuits between state governments or some cases between the federal government and a state) it sits as a court of original jurisdiction. It is regarded as among the most interventionist and powerful national courts in the world.

Military
The armed forces of Cartadania are some of the largest in the world by active personnel and in terms of military equipment. It consists of the Cartadanian Army (including the Army Aviation Command), the Cartadanian Navy (including Naval Aviation), the Cartadanian Marine Corps, and the Cartadanian Air Force. The president is the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces and appoints its leaders, the secretary of defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Department of Defense administers four of the five service branches, which are made up of the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy. The Coast Guard, also a branch of the armed forces, is normally administered by the Department of Homeland Security in peacetime, but can be transferred to the Department of the Navy in wartime. Military service in Cartadania is voluntary, and has been since 1974, but conscription may still occur in wartime. Reservists are available to the armed forces and participate in defense exercises and deployments abroad on a pretty regular basis. Cartadania spent $1.260 trillion on its military in 2032, approximately 4.4% of its GDP. Numbering close to 220,000 active personnel, the Cartadanian Army has one of the largest number of armored vehicles in the world, including armored transports and tanks. It is also unique in Sarpedon for its large, elite forces specializing in unconventional missions, the Cartadanian Special Operations Command, and the versatile Strategic Rapid Action Force, made up of highly mobilized and prepared Special Operations Brigade, Infantry Brigade Parachutist, 1st Jungle Infantry Battalion (Airmobile) and 12th Brigade Light Infantry (Airmobile) able to act anywhere in the country, on short notice, to counter external aggression. The Air Force, one of the largest in the world, has about 5,276 aircraft in service and about 328,000 personnel.

Cartadania has been invaded once in modern history during the First Great War, with the only other invasion occurring in the 5th century, prior to the country's existence. Additionally, Cartadania has no contested territorial disputes with any of its neighbors, nor does it have rivalries or military qualms since the fall of Varshan. The Cartadanian military has also once intervened militarily to subdue the Cartadanian government, during the Ano Vermelho from 1697–1698. It has, for the most part, though, built a tradition of participating in LON peacekeeping missions, and the country has, overall, been a strong advocate for diplomacy.

As a direct result of the 2002 Vila Real Accords and creation of the Union of Sarpedonian States, Cartadania's military is obligated to an armed response should any of UNESARP's member states come under fire from a foreign assailant. The defense mandate, known as DEFESARP, holds that an attack against one is to be considered an attack against both. This principle was historically referred to as the "Cognati defense" doctrine, and is considered a logical continuation of the Vila Real Accords. It further provides for cooperation on military training, advanced cyber, artificial intelligence and autonomy, quantum technologies, undersea capabilities, hypersonic and counter-hypersonic, electronic warfare, innovation and information sharing. The armed forces of both countries have access to each other's bases and territories, extending the reach of the union to a global level.

Foreign policy
The foreign policy of Cartadania is the way in which it interacts with foreign nations and sets standards of interaction for its organizations, corporations, and individual citizens. The officially stated goals of the foreign policy of the Cartadania, including all the Bureaus and Offices in the Department of State, as mentioned in the Foreign Policy Agenda of the Department of State, are "to build and sustain a more democratic, secure, and prosperous world for the benefit of the Cartadanian people and the international community". In addition, the Cartadanian Chamber Committee on Foreign Affairs states as some of its jurisdictional goals: "export controls, including nonproliferation of nuclear technology and nuclear hardware; measures to foster commercial intercourse with foreign nations and to safeguard Cartadanian business abroad; international commodity agreements; international education; and protection of Cartadanian citizens abroad and expatriation. Cartadanian foreign policy and foreign aid have been the subject of much debate, praise and criticism, both domestically and abroad, especially in times of budget surplus expenditure.

The vast majority of Cartadania's international relations are amicable and it maintains relations with more than 100 countries. Although oversight of foreign policy is the responsibility of the Department of State, the development policy of Cartadania is a semi-independent area of foreign policy. It is formulated by the multiple bureaus within the Department of State and carried out by the implementing organisations. The Cartadanian government sees development policy as a joint responsibility of the international community. The country has participated in various organizations for international development, including those for educational attainment like the Accord of Romance Governments for University and Solidarity (ARGUS), international peace and security diplomatic organizations such at the League of Nations, and has even participated in economic and military organizations, such as with the now-defunct Levantia and Odoneru Treaty Association. As of the 2002 ratification of the Vila Real Accords, Cartadania has been in a supranational union with Pelaxia, known as the Union of Sarpedonian States, or UNESARP. It binds their economies to a common currency, the Real, and orchestrates a similar political system between the member states. It also obligates both to a military response should the other be attacked by a foreign assailant. The open borders between the two has made economic growth between the two very explosive and Alahuela has long considered Albalitor a strategic and necessary ally.

Law enforcement and crime
Law enforcement in Cartadania is primarily the responsibility of local police and sheriff's departments, with state police providing broader services. Federal agencies such as the Federal Department of Investigation ( or DFI) and the Federal Marshals Service have specialized duties, including protecting civil rights, national security and enforcing federal courts' rulings and federal laws. At the federal level and in almost every state, a legal system operates on a common law. State courts conduct most criminal trials; federal courts handle certain designated crimes as well as certain appeals from the state criminal courts. Though not widespread in Cartadania, a limited form of plea bargaining does exist and is called a "conformity sentence" meaning the accused is in agreement and can only be used in minor charges but not in serious charges where nine or more years of prison may be imposed, therefore it is most commonly found in misdemeanor trials or low severity felonies.

Capital punishment is sanctioned in Cartadania for certain federal and military crimes, and used in several states, commonly referred to by the term "summa poena". No executions took place from 1997 to 2012, owing in part to a Supreme Court ruling striking down arbitrary imposition of the death penalty. In 2011, that Court ruled that, under appropriate circumstances, capital punishment may constitutionally be imposed. Since the decision there have been more than 1,300 executions, a majority of these taking place in three states: Aveiro, Lombardia, and São Andreas. Meanwhile, several states have either abolished or struck down death penalty laws. In 2025, however, the Supreme Court partially struck down the use of capital punishment in Cartadania as "Human dignity shall be inviolable. To respect and protect it shall be the duty of all state authority." and consequently ordered compliance by all subordinate jurisdictions. This, however, does not apply to what is referred to as "Trigger" or "Class 0" felonies, typically associated with acts of genocide, use of deadly weapon in a public place like a school, or severe foreign acts of war. The last death penalty execution at the federal level occurred in 2021, with the execution of Cane Pendry.

While Cartadania itself has no federal civilian police department (federal marshals are an arm of the Department of Justice and perform specific tasks), the various agencies (e.g., the Department of Justice) work with local police on various tasks, and its not uncommon to see various agencies' officers at crime scenes throughout the country.

The Border Security Agency ( or ASF) is a Cartadanian federal law enforcement agency tasked with securing the nation's border, alongside the Coast Guard. Its mission is to detect and prevent illegal aliens, terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering Cartadania, and prevent illegal trafficking of people and contraband. It was an agency within Cartadanian Customs and Border Protection, a component of the former Department of National Security, but the two have been consolidated into a single entity under the Department of Homeland Security. The force was created during the Vachena Crises and was continuously in operation during the Great Wars and Occidental Cold War, when relations between Cartadania and Caphiria were still uncertain. With over 21,000 agents, the Border Patrol is one of the largest law enforcement agencies in Cartadania.

Economy
Cartadania boasts a and , with the government owning strategic areas. This has enabled it to become the second-largest national economy in Sarpedon and the. Despite its early sensitivity to global business cycles, the economy of Cartadania has demonstrated robust growth since the beginning of the industrial era. It has also demonstrated resilience in the face of financial downturns, with the country being less vulnerable to their effects than many other economies.

Cartadania has a reputation for being one of the most technologically advanced and innovative economies worldwide, with its firms at the forefront of technological advances. The country has excelled in numerous fields, including, , and and. As a result, it has established itself as a significant contributor to global technological development. Furthermore, Cartadania has strong trading relationships with numerous countries worldwide, including Bulkh, Caphiria, and Pelaxia (through UNESARP), among others. As a result, it has become a significant trading partner and a vital player in regional and global trade.

In addition to its technological advancements, Cartadania conducts extensive applied research, generating a significant amount of knowledge in its laboratories. It is commonly regards as being a bridge between university insights and industry-specific improvements, with practical industrial value being the driving force behind its research. This focus on applied research has allowed Cartadania to become a leader in innovation and development in numerous fields, ensuring its continued success in the global marketplace.

Components and energy
Cartadania's economy is a well-balanced mix of different sectors, each playing a vital role in contributing to the country's economic growth. The services sector, which employs the majority of the workforce, is comprised of a variety of industries such as, , , , and , among others. This sector has continued to grow, driven by increasing consumer demand and technological advancements.

The industrial sector, on the other hand, is characterized by the production of goods such as automobiles,, , , and. These industries have been a major source of employment for many decades and continue to be significant contributors to the country's GDP. The manufacturing sector, which is a subset of the industrial sector, has undergone significant changes over the years, with many companies investing in advanced technology to improve efficiency and productivity.

Despite its small size relative to the rest of the economy, Cartadania's agricultural sector is an important contributor to the economy, supporting food processing and the production of consumer goods worldwide. The sector has faced challenges such as declining productivity, rising labor costs, and changing consumer preferences, but the government has implemented various policies to support farmers and encourage innovation.

One of Cartadania's key strengths is its abundance of natural resources, including, , , and. The country has established itself as a major producer and exporter of these resources, contributing significantly to its trade balance. However, the government recognizes the need to reduce reliance on non-renewable resources and has taken steps to promote renewable energy and sustainable practices.

Cartadania's current rate of -0.3% reflects its stable economic conditions and sound monetary policies. The government has implemented various measures to promote sustainable economic growth, including investing in infrastructure, encouraging entrepreneurship, and promoting innovation. However, the country still faces challenges such as increasing competition from other nations and the need to adapt to changing market conditions.

The domestic energy sector is a significant component of the Cartadanian economy, as it is one of the world's largest energy consumers. The government has taken steps to transition to a low-carbon, renewable energy system, which will have implications for the country's economic growth and development. The construction of renewable energy infrastructure, such as and s, as well as the eventual decommissioning of nuclear power plants, will create opportunities for job growth and investment in the energy sector. Additionally, the government's emphasis on energy efficiency and demand management will help to mitigate the costs associated with energy consumption and reduce the overall economic burden of energy production and consumption.

Demographics
With a population of 376 million according to the 2030 census, Cartadania is the second-most populous country in Sarpedon after Caphiria, and the ninth-most populous country in the world. Its population density stands at 91.2 PD/km2. The overall life expectancy in Cartadania at birth is 84.19 years (81.87 years for males and 86.51 years for females). According to health data from participating institutions reporting to the Department of Health and Human Services, Cartadania had a net gain of one person every 100 seconds, or about 864 people per day. The median age of the country is 39.3 years, but is beginning to increase as the nation's largest demographic sector matures.

Cartadania is a fairly diverse land, settled mostly by the Latin people of Caphiria and from descent of Adonerum. Their arrival and settlements played a profound role in the development and culture of the country. The Latin-descent groups that arrived in Cartadania eventually blended with the native Italic populations throughout the country. As such, some 14% of people in Cartadania are explicitly Latin, while nearly three-quarters of the population is of some Latin or native Cartadanian combination. Small, relatively homogenous minorities of other ethnicities, making up the remaining portions exist in Cartadania, spread throughout the nation in many different areas.


 * Metropolitan areas



Language
Cartadanian is the official and predominant spoken language in Cartadania. It is a derived from vulgar latin of the Caphiric latin offshoot in Odros and the Kindreds (hence its categorization as Odo-Kindredian). Cartadanian is one of the most widely spoken first languages in the world, with around 440 million native speakers, and is the second-most spoken Romance language on the planet with a total 520 million speakers (including L2 speakers).

Recognised native minority languages in Cartadania are Charentais, Ettian, Latin, Lotoan, and Suyaran; they are officially protected by the Code for Regional or Minority Languages. The most used immigrant languages are Burgoignesc, Carnish, Coscivian, Ænglish, Etzilian, Lebhan, and other Taínean languages. Cartadanians are typically multilingual: 71% of Cartadanian citizens claim to be able to communicate in at least one foreign language and 34% in at least two. Cartadania's position so close to the largest countries on the planet, both of which have a very large Latin-speaking population, means that being able to communicate in that language is important. A strong willingness to build relations between countries has germinated a culture of learning foreign languages very early in life, and many schools in Cartadania have multilingual options.

Education
Responsibility for educational supervision in Cartadania is primarily organized within the individual state and local governments, with regulations by the Department of Education. Optional early education and kindergarten  education is provided for all children between newborn and five years old, after which school attendance is compulsory for at least twelve years. Primary education usually lasts for five to six years, while Secondary education is divided into intermediate and high schools, lasting three and four years, respectively. Secondary schooling can also be divided into tracks based on whether students pursue academic or vocational education. A system of apprenticeship leads to a skilled qualification that is almost comparable to an academic degree. It allows students in vocational training to learn in a company as well as in a state-run trade school.

Cartadania has many private and public institutions of higher education. A sizeable portion of the world's top universities, as listed by various ranking organizations, are in Cartadania. The Erudite University of Alahuela is one of the largest universities on the planet, enrolling more than 130,000 students on a regular basis. Each state also has its own university system for its respective jurisdiction. While post-secondary education is readily attainable in Cartadania, it is not free like the primary and secondary systems. Costs vary from zero tuition and only the cost of room and board in the Luson partnership states, to standard costs of attendance at many other public and private institutions. Tuition can also vary dramatically, not only from state to state but within a state as well. There are also local community colleges with generally more open admission policies, shorter academic programs, and lower tuition.

Cartadania has some of the most educated citizens in the world, with a 97% secondary graduation rate, of which 71% of those individuals go on to pursue tertiary education. The basic rate in Cartadania sits at 99%, with the largest gaps being those of rural populations in some insular territories. The federal government, in conjunction with state and local governments, works to promote tertiary education, and through its partnership with ARGUS, students from outside the country can come to Cartadania to learn, which in some cases, can afford those individuals a quick track to citizenship.

Health
The Cartadanian health care system is, by law, one of universal health care largely financed by government national health insurance, although, healthcare is provided to all citizens and residents by a mixed public-private system. During a world health care systems assessment, the World Health Organization found that Cartadania provided one of the best overall health care systems in the world. The Cartadanian healthcare system was ranked second worldwide by the World Health Organization in 2020. In 2032, Cartadania spent 6.7% of its GDP on health care, or $5,065 per capita, a figure much higher than the average spent by countries in cultural proximity to it. Approximately 75% of health expenditures are covered by government funded agencies, and care for people affected by chronic diseases such as cancer, AIDS or cystic fibrosis is generally free.

Average life expectancy at birth is 81.87 years for men and 86.51 years for women, one of the highest of the World. The fertility rate in 2032 stood at 1.71 children born/per woman and has been below the replacement rate of 2.1 since 1973. With a low birth rate, women also become mothers at a later age, the mean age at first live birth being 28.2 in 2032. A study published in a Merced medical journal found that Cartadania also had the lowest stillbirth rate out of the occidental countries.

Religion
The Cartadanian constitution enshrines secularism in governance, as well as freedom of religion or belief for all, saying that no religion should have a "state character," while allowing for the state to "cooperate" with religious groups. With regard to the constitution, Cartadanians are free to worship as they please, and freedom of religion issues often prove to be top priorities for local and state governments. A vast majority of Cartadanians are Christian, with many falling under Catholic or some other Christian faith. Islam is the second-largest religion in the country. In 2020, as part of a national survey unrelated to the census, 1.9% of the census population (7.08 million people) gave their religion as Islam. It tends to be concentrated in areas with large Audonian populations, especially those who immigrated from the UAE. Cartadania is unique in that its religious sites are not exempted from taxation by way of property. Income earned from religious jobs in Cartadania may be subject to income tax by specific states, dependent on their laws, but the federal government assesses a specialized, low, flat-rate income tax for religious leaders. Though controversial, this was allowed due to public outcry that special treatment of religious sites went against the separation of church and state, and one of the very reasons Caphiria and Cartadania did not get along, which resulted in its independence.

The confluence of faiths during the Caphirian colonization of Cartadania led to the development of a diverse array of syncretistic practices within the overarching umbrella of Cartadanian Catholic Church, characterized by traditional Cartadanian festivities, like the large Carnival festival. There is also a number of individuals professing no religion constituting a significant demographic group, exceeding 11% of the population as of the 2020 census.

Despite such strong efforts to keep religion out of the government, Cartadania has one of the largest numbers of geographic areas named after catholic saints, including four states and two territories–Santa Domenica, Santa Elena, Santarém (Sancta Irene), Santiago (Sancta Iacobu), São Andreas, and São Ricardo–and hundreds of counties and municipalities. There have been several Cartadanian Popes, including the current, Pope Gregory XVII.

Science and technology
Cartadania is known for its advanced research and development in various fields of science and technology. The country has a strong focus on innovation and has invested heavily in research and development, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in many fields. One notable area of expertise is artificial intelligence, with Cartadanian scientists and researchers leading the way in developing cutting-edge AI technologies that are used in various industries such as healthcare, finance, and transportation. The country is also a leader in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, with many of the world's top pharmaceutical companies having their research and development facilities located in Cartadania. In addition, Cartadania has made significant advancements in aerospace and military technology, with its defense industry being a major contributor to the economy. The country has also been at the forefront of renewable energy research, with the construction of solar and wind farms as well as hydroelectric plants being a key part of the government's plan to transition to a low-carbon economy. Cartadania has a highly educated workforce, with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. The country has several top-ranked universities, including its flagship Erudite, and the government provides generous funding for scientific research and development.

Water supply and sanitation
Cartadania has achieved universal and affordable access to public water supply and sanitation. The sector is efficient and of high quality, with a few unique features that distinguish it from other developed countries. These features include low per capita water usage, a high proportion of advanced wastewater treatment, and minimal water distribution losses. Counties and municipalities are responsible for providing water supply and sanitation services, and they are subject to state regulations. Professional associations and utility associations also play an important role in the sector, contributing to its success.

In order to reduce Cartadania's reliance on groundwater in areas with high salinity, the country has implemented innovative hydraulic engineering and integrated water management approaches. These include the reuse of reclaimed water, the creation of protected areas in urban rainwater catchments, and the use of estuaries as freshwater reservoirs. Additionally, water desalination technology has been introduced to further address the issue of high salinity in some areas.

Telecommunications
Cartadania's system of telecommunications is highly developed. It is served by an extensive system of automatic telephone exchanges connected by modern networks of fiber-optic cable, coaxial cable, microwave radio relay, and a domestic satellite system. The cellular telephone service is widely available, expanding rapidly to extremely rural areas, and includes roaming service to foreign countries, while those visiting countries where the operating carrier is also present continue life as usual.

The telephony system employs an extensive system of modern network elements such as digital telephone exchanges, mobile switching centers, media gateways and signaling gateways at the core, interconnected by a wide variety of transmission systems using fiber-optics or Microwave radio relay networks. The access network, which connects the subscriber to the core, is highly diversified with different copper-pair, optic-fiber, and wireless technologies. The fixed-line telecommunications market is dominated by Axiom Communications and Alfa Telecom, while the mobile phone market in Cartadania is dominated by 3 main cellular operators: Axiom Communications, Alô, and Claro.

About 356 million people in Cartadania (approximately 95% of the population) use the, and the country has one of the world's fastest average internet connection speeds, with average download speeds of around 235.8 for fixed broadband connections and 104.4 Mbit/s for mobile (cellular only) connections.

The development of the system as a whole is owed to the federal government and states' expenditures towards its development, working with electronics companies and developing the industry, and promoting the usage of more modern technologies through education and research. It is overseen, at large, by the Public Utilities Commission.

Energy
Cartadania is one of the world's largest energy consumers with much of its energy coming from nuclear and renewable sources, particularly hydroelectricity and ethanol. Powering the homes and businesses of over 375 million people places a particularly unique burden on the federal government, which has begun to crack down on the use on non-renewables and use of fossil fuels. The ongoing transition by Cartadania to a low carbon, environmentally sound, reliable, and affordable energy supply can be seen across the country by construction of solar and wind farms, as well as the construction of dams, of which, the Granita Dam, completed in 2015, is one of the world's largest hydroelectric plant by energy generation. The new system intends to rely heavily on renewable energy (particularly wind, photovoltaics, and hydroelectricity), energy efficiency, and energy demand management.

Nuclear power has been a topical political issue in recent decades due to its precedence in the energy sector, with continuing debates about when the technology should be phased out. Though a formal consensus has not been reached, many officials recommend 2040 as the deadline for Cartadania to phase out its final nuclear facilities. Simon Ohlson Nuclear Generation Facility in Lombardia, located approximately 48 km southeast of Figueroa, is the highest output nuclear facility in Cartadania, supplying three-quarters of the state's nuclear power. Olympia Nuclear Generation Station in Verona is another major nuclear power plant within the country, though having opened in 2015, the Verona Department of Energy has stated it will likely be open into the 2050s.

The nation's power transmission grid consists of about 600000 km of power lines operated by approximately 150 companies. The governmental agencies responsible for the energy policy are the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources, the Energy Commission, the Cartadanian Electric Reliability Corporation (C³E), and the Congressional Energy Board.

Culture
Many aspects of Cartadanian culture can be traced back to the early cultures of Western Levantia and tCaphiria of the past and their collision with Cartadania's native civilizations. The Caphirians brought Catholicism, Audonians, and catalyzed the creation of a feudal encomienda system. After the fall of Caphirian rule over the Odridian zone, the Cartadanian people attempted to establish a pluralistic political system, between conservative and liberal ideals, however it was not without difficulty. The conservatives supported the involvement of the Catholic Church in the state, while liberals favored the separation of these. Some aspects of Cartadanian culture are contributions of Caphirian, Coscivian, Pelaxian, and other immigrants. Native people and Polynesians played a large role in the formation of the Cartadanian language, cuisine, music, dance, and religion. The famous elements of Cartadanian culture are its art, music, style, and iconic food. Popular tastes in drama in Cartadania have long favored comedy; the improvisational style known as the Comédia de arte began in Cartadania in the mid-16th century and is still performed today.

Architecture
Cartadania's architectural style has displayed remarkable diversity over the years, evolving throughout its history. While classical architecture is prominent in parts of the capital, its prevalence decreases outside this area, an uncommon trend of the developed Occident and one that has seen a particularly unique sense of style develop throughout the region.

, originating in Cartadania during the 1910s, gained prominence during the interwar period. This style merged early 20th-century Modernist avant-garde elements with the opulence and fine craftsmanship of Canetic historic design, occasionally incorporating motifs from non-Western cultures. Art Deco symbolized luxury, glamour, exuberance, and faith in societal and technological advancement. It featured rare and costly materials such as ebony and ivory, as well as exquisite craftsmanship. Such elements were considered ordinary for Cartadania during that era.

In regions with significant indigenous populations, particularly Vallosi and Suyaran, architecture draws inspiration from native styles. Traditional indigenous structures, crafted from local materials, cater to regional environmental conditions. Thatched roofs, open spaces, and the use of wood and bamboo are common elements. The traditional cognatian architectural style, mainly found in the nation's southern interior regions like Vitrea, includes decorative tiles, wrought-iron balconies, and city layouts featuring central squares and churches.

Urban areas, like the city of Alahuela, exhibit diverse architectural styles, from sleek skyscrapers to contemporary residential buildings. Contemporary architects often blend global design trends with Cartadanian cultural elements. This progressive approach is increasingly popular, with government buildings adopting similar styles in various regions.

Preservation of historical structures and landmarks is vital in Cartadania. While older buildings may be replaced with modern designs, the commitment to conservation ensures the upkeep of colonial-era structures and cultural sites. Architectural diversity mirrors the nation's cultural richness, with regional variations influenced by local customs and traditions. Cities with strong Levantine immigrant communities in the east often feature architecture reminiscent of their countries of origin.

In recent years, sustainability and energy efficiency have become central to architectural design. Integration with the natural environment is increasingly important, and many areas require green spaces in architectural plans to combat issues like heat islands and phenomena.

Cuisine
Cartadania's culinary heritage is deeply entrenched in historical traditions and has been formed from a fusion of culinary influences from Levantine, Cronan, Audonian, and Alshari origins. This amalgamation of diverse culinary elements has given rise to a nuanced culinary landscape characterized by distinct regional variations, mirroring the nation's geographical and cultural diversity. The country's high level of biodiversity has imparted an array of ingredients upon its culinary landscape, and the variety is further expanded by its ties with neighboring countries. The infusion of traditional spices from Cartadania and Caphiria, rooted in their historic spice trade, has especially contributed unique flavors to Cartadanian gastronomy. Notable among these spices are chili peppers, black pepper, saffron, and paprika, contributing to the nuanced taste profiles of both savory and dessert offerings.

Seafood occupies a prominent position in many regions, exemplified by dishes such as moqueca, a revered seafood stew enriched with ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and lime. Meat-centric preparations, featuring beef, lamb, and pork, highlight the culinary prowess of the nation, finding a strong foothold in the nation's interior regions. Cartadanian cuisine bears the imprint of neighboring countries, especially Caphiria, particularly its province of Turiana, and Pelaxia. Elements of Caphirian-style dishes and cheeses have found favor, while the Turian and Pelaxian culinary influence introduces depth and variety. The nation's penchant for indigenous beverages is evident in the consumption of cachaça, mate tea, coffee, fruit juices, and beer, reflecting a vibrant beverage culture.

Desserts encompass a diverse array of flavors and textures as well. Bolo de rolo has become very popular with its thinly layered cake enveloping guava paste, while brigadeiro and beijinho are most commonly associated with the country, made with condensed milk and adorned with chocolate or coconut, respectively. The popularity of açaí na tigela, derived from the açaí palm fruit and often just known by the name açaí, reflects the growing trend of culinary globalization in the occident, particularly from Sarpedon's "big three" (i.e., Caphiria, Cartadania, and Pelaxia). Additionally, dulce de leche, introduced from Pelaxia, has secured a significant place in Cartadanian confectionery, especially in major metro areas of the south.