Asgardia’s Chair of Parliament, Lembit Öpik, answers questions from AMP Helena Aramendia about his involvement with Asgardia, his expectations for its future and what’s going to happen next. For Lembit, Asgardia is a necessary step for the human race - and he says those who don’t believe in a space future for humanity have no place in this bold venture for permanent space habitation. Question: When did you become Asgardian and why, what was your motivation? Lembit: I’ve known about Asgardia almost since it first came into existence. I became an Asgardian when I became confident it was the world’s most credible attempt to create a space nation for humanity. There are many science fiction films about ‘Empires’ and ‘Federations.’ That’s because there is a basic need in our species for some sort of social structure. We can’t imagine progress without it. For us, anarchy doesn’t work. In space, anarchy would build nothing. You can only survive there as a team player, as part of society. Asgardia is that society. In fact, Asgardia seems to be doing what no-one else has done in history. By having the vision to take action to create a peaceful society model for humanity in space, it´s founder, Dr. Igor Ashurbeyli, has boldly gone where no man has gone before. He has taken the massive initiative to build a space nation - step-by-step and element-by-element. I find his investment of time and sheer intellectual will tremendously motivating. Question: What is your vision for Asgardia? Lembit: My vision for Asgardia is exactly the same as the one presented by the Head of Nation. It’s summarised in our Constitution. I’ve shortened it here, but the opening lines are: ‘We, the people of planet Earth, irrespective of our place of birth, residence, language, gender, race, nationality, religion or citizenship, use our free choice, to unite future humanity, resolve differences, conflicts, inequality and imperfections in human history, bring spiritual and scientific practices and human creative achievements to a new level, and launch a new era in the history of space humanity.’ Imagine if we can do all that. Imagine if the big challenges of living and working in space can unite those involved. Here on earth, we have lots of air and water. We can grow food outside. We have the time and resources to start wars for pointless territorial gain. None of that applies in space. The words at the start of the Constitution refer to a space environment where cosmic threats and a lack of air and water have to be treated in a united way by the community living there. A war kills everyone. It’s a non-starter. So, I buy into the vision for Asgardia. My vision for myself in Asgardia is to help make that happen. We can each play a small part in that. Together we achieve the whole. I find that prospect very exciting. Question: You have experience working in Parliament of a terrestrial nation. How is Asgardia different or similar to other nations? Lembit: Asgardia differs in two ways from any terrestrial political system I’ve worked in. Firstly, it’s based entirely on the collective interest and doesn’t welcome any kind of party political system where the parties or factions serve themselves instead of the nation. Secondly, the absolutely clear mission of Asgardia, to create a sustainable, peaceful and inclusive space nation, unites Parliament in a way that almost no other Parliament I’ve seen is united. Asgardia’s political system is still maturing. We don’t do everything perfectly. I can certainly see ways I can do things better myself. And that’s what this voyage is all about – getting things right so that even when the institution of Parliament is under stress, it ‘defaults to stability.’ That makes this really interesting. I dare to believe we can create the best democracy this world has seen, and take it out of this world. Question: What is the biggest challenge that Asgardia has at this moment? Lembit: Asgardia’s biggest single challenge is to be recognised by earth states and earth citizens. Recognition by earth states gives us room to develop economic and political links. These convert into a fully functional relationship for Asgardia with the world’s markets and the global political environment. That will become more and more important as we develop our space presence. We need to interact credibly with our Homeworld, and that’s best done by having good relations with terrestrial political structures. And we also need to reach out to citizens of earth directly. Asgardia needs to achieve 150 million citizens of its own. Each will, by definition, also have an earth country in which they live. While we already have over a million followers, the absolute priority is to convert supporters into citizens who pay into the Asgardian state. We need resources to invest in our key science programmes and develop our trade, civic systems and national infrastructure. That’s not free. We need real citizens to make a real financial commitment to the nation. For me, that is Asgardia’s number one priority. Question: Can you share any exciting plans that Asgardia has in the making right now? Lembit: I can share a few plans. The Head of Nation, Dr Ashurbeyli, has set the target for setting up our first terrestrial representative office in this calendar year. That brings many challenges, and it means we’ve got to clarify different levels of association with Asgardia. Secondly, we have a lot of science coming up. That’s central to Asgardia’s goal to get into space. We need to find reliable, and comparatively cheaper, ways of building places people can live in for the long term - while also solving issues such as artificial gravity. Thirdly, I, as I’ve said, the single most important aspect of our current development of the nation is getting the economy growing. That’s a massive job and requires everyone to play their part. Dr Ashurbeyli has set a clear time limit: we’ve got to have permanent space communities by 2043. That’s a 25-year time scale. It’s good to have that focus. We can do it. It’s just a question of commitment, creativity and refusal to ever give up. Question: How are you helping to create Asgardia? Lembit: My duty is to get the Parliamentary system to work effectively internally, and with Government. The relationship between the two is absolutely vital to get the most out of these structures. I think we’re doing well so far. Nations don’t get set up very often – and nobody has set up a space nation before. So we have to solve various issues, relating to communications and how things work. I can help map some of those uncharted paths. And then there’s the simple-to-say and hard-to-do part: selling Asgardia to earth. We’re still developing the best ways to do that. As soon as we do, the rest will become a lot more straightforward. Question: Would you encourage anybody to be an Asgardian? After all, everyone on Earth belongs to a nation already. Lembit: No. Asgardia is not for everybody. If someone regards space activity as a waste of our time, then joining Asgardia is a waste of their time. We haven’t got any desire to try and convince people who simply refuse to believe in our vision. However, we invite anyone with a sense of wonder about the cosmos and a belief that in the decades ahead we need to be ‘up there’ working and living in space. If that’s you, Asgardia is ‘the only game in town.’ Remember, existing national space programmes serve the nations that pay for them. Asgardia’s space programme is not designed for Asgardia, but for all Humankind. The vision is not designed for earth nations - it’s designed for the whole earth and everyone and everything that lives here. I believe thousands of millions of people know that earth is not our endpoint, but our starting point. They should give us a call. They’re all welcome - they’re all in. Question: Would you like to share any final message? Lembit: The United States airline, Pan Am, used to have an advertisement which said ‘For once in a lifetime, get into this world.’ They were pioneers and introduced to the world everything from the first transatlantic commercial flying boat to the massive Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet. They even took some of the first bookings for space trips. Asgardia takes it that step further. We’re saying, ‘for once in a lifetime, get out of this world.’ When we look up, we look at our future, just 100 kilometres away. Space is so close. Living there won’t make us less human. We’ll still get angry. We’ll still misunderstand things. We’ll still fall in love and out of love, and we’ll still grieve for those we lose. But we’ll also find ways to do all this with maturity and wisdom in a new environment. If we get this right, we’ll secure the future of the human race, and many other species, for millions of years. Asgardia is the bridge from our earthly future to our stellar future. And that could also help us comprehend what our purpose is, and take us closer to achieving it. As an inspirational, inclusive new nation, I admire what Asgardia has already achieved. And we’ve only just begun.

It's our birthday! The 24th of June of 2018 the first parliament of the first Space Nation in the History of Humanity had his first session. This week was the anniversary of this historical event. Since then Asgardia has grown up to over a million followers and more than 18.000 residents. Government is formed and working. Parliament has had two more official online sessions presided by its Chairman, Lembit Öpik since then, and it is a fully active Parliament with 12 permanent committees working on legislation. Considering that never before a nation has been actively created with people from so many different nations, this may be a good moment to reflect on the work that has been done. It is a very challenging feat and yet, Asgardia is growing and strengthening every day. Over a million people represented by Parliament, all with a well defined purpose: to create the space nation that would unite Humanity. Back to the present time, Parliament’s update comes today from the Manufacturing, Safety & Security and Trade & Commerce committees. Chair of Manufacturing Committee Mr. Fernando JIménez Motte indicates that as ASGARDIA keeps its auto sustaining and scaling process in the direction of a 150 million network, the MC (Manufacturing Committee) will keep rebalancing its composition to be able to have members from different Asgardia Global Distribution structure in order to establish relations with the Global Manufacturing Industry. MC is also currently analyzing, debating and endorsing their Manufacturing Deputy Chair Mr. Burhan Ozturk ́s Draft Legislation proposal : Asgardia Institute of Standards Establishment Law (Asgardia Institute of Standards AIS). As for Trade and Commerce committee received notification that the draft Resolution titled International Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, has reached the 30 plus signatures it needed to advance to the next level of approvals. It will need to be sent to the appropriate committee to finish reviewing processes, but we are certainly happy to reach this milestone in what should become an historic document within Asgardia. There was much collaboration between the Trade and Commerce Committee and the Science Committee, along with other Parliament members, in bringing this historical document to life. This last month the TCC has been working hard on prioritizing legislation, following Parliament last session’s resolution. They decided to write three pieces of legislation to cover the Private Business Law, which are Asgardia Business Act, Asgardia Consumer Protection Act, and Asgardia Grants Act. The given reason for this decision was that in order to have successful private business within Asgardia it is necessary to create legislation that would allow business practices, protection for those business practices, and a way forward to give these business practices entrepreneurs valuable assistance in creating and maintaining their business. Lastly, John E. Fine, Chairman of TCC mentioned that they have begun discussions on the Tax Law for Asgardia. Finally we have interesting news to share from the Safety and security committee, as they finalized and presented to Parliament the initial "Asgardia Near Earth Object Strategy and Action Plan” for discussion. It is certainly a proposal that goes beyond what can be considered a regular protection plan for Earth countries. Clearly Asgardia is on the right path setting up the legislative foundation needed for a Space Nation to thrive. At the start of the second year of legislature, signs of an incipient body of law are noticeable, as well as a strong vision and determination to complete it. Parliament has a lot of work ahead, representing currently over one million Asgardians, and more than enough passion and enthusiasm left to achieve its goal: One Unity, One Humanity.

Nuevos nombramientos, planes para el “Día del Asteroide” y actualizaciones de comités, nuestras noticias semanales están aquí. Nos complace ofrecerle otra actualización sobre el trabajo del Parlamento de Asgardia, comenzando por nuevos nombramientos. Hoy felicitamos al MP Ismail Sengul, (Distrito 3, Turco) por su nombramiento como Secretario Ejecutivo del Comité de Comercio y Comercio. También felicitamos a la diputada Helena Aramendia (Distrito 4, español) por su nombramiento como Presidenta del Subcomité de Relaciones Públicas recientemente creado, tal como anunciamos la semana pasada en este canal. Deseamos a los parlamentarios Sengul y Aramendia todo lo mejor en sus nuevos roles. El 30 de junio es el día del asteroide. La diputada Ariadne Gallardo (Distrito 4, español) está creando un video con información sobre algunos de los meteoros que conservamos en diferentes lugares de la Tierra. Si desea colaborar con este video o tiene más ideas sobre cómo celebrar este día, puede ponerse en contacto con Ariadne Gallardo (Ariadne.Gallardo@asgardia.space). El diputado Sotirios A. Mouzakitis, presidente del Comité de Justicia, presentó el informe de su Comité de Propuestas Legislativas. Un total de 10 propuestas diferentes, que van desde la implementación de un mercado asgardiano en línea, o la creación de un Sistema de Educación Holística Asgardiana hasta una propuesta sobre Deporte y Bienestar en Asgardia, han sido revisadas por los miembros del comité, y con sus conclusiones, Han sido devueltos al presidente del Parlamento, Lembit Opik. Siguiendo los procedimientos de nuestro propio parlamento, el Sr. Opik ahora puede rechazar las propuestas o llevarlas al Parlamento para su consideración y discusión. Felicitamos al diputado Mouzakitis y su equipo por su compromiso. La próxima semana esperamos tener más noticias sobre otra plataforma de reuniones en línea con capacidades de traducción que serán probadas por algunos voluntarios en el Parlamento. ¡No se pierdan nuestras actualizaciones! Asgardia ha crecido en 3064 asgardianos durante el último mes, acercándonos cada día más a la realidad que estamos creando: Una unidad, una humanidad.

New appointments, plans for Asteroid day and committee updates, our weekly news are here. We are pleased to bring you another update on the work of Asgardia’s Parliament starting with announcements. Today we congratulate MP Ismail Sengul, (District 3, Turkish) on his appointment to the position of Executive Secretary of Trade and Commerce Committee. We also congratulate MP Helena Aramendia (District 4, Spanish) on her appointment as Chair of the newly created PR subcommittee, announced last week in this channel. We wish MPs Sengul and MP Aramendia all the best in their new roles. June 30 is asteroid day. MP Ariadne Gallardo (District 4, Spanish) is creating a video with information about many of the meteors that we have in different locations on Earth. If you would like to collaborate with this video or you have more ideas about how to celebrate this day, you can contact MP Ariadne Gallardo (Ariadne.Gallardo@asgardia.space). MP Sotirios A. Mouzakitis, Chairman of the Justice Committee, presented the Report of his Committee on Legislative Proposals. A total of 10 different proposals, ranging from the implementation of an Asgardian online marketplace or the creation of an Asgardian Holistic Education System to a proposal about Sport and Wellbeing in Asgardia, have been reviewed by the members of the committee, and with their conclusions, they have been returned to Chairman of Parliament, Lembit Opik. Following our own parliament procedures, Mr. Opik may now dismiss the proposals or bring them to Parliament for their consideration and discussion. We command MP Mouzakitis and his team for their commitment. Next week we expect to have more news about another online meeting platform with translation capabilities that would be tested by some volunteers in Parliament. Don’t miss our updates! Asgardia has grown in 3064 Asgardians during the last month, bringing our reality closer. One Unity, One Humanity.

Esta semana en el Parlamento de Asgardia se ha notado bastante movimiento en los aspectos prácticos de su trabajo, como por ejemplo la traducción. El presidente del Parlamento, Lembit Opik, consciente de que se necesita tener traducción simultánea de calidad, fácilmente disponible y conómicamente viable, está dando prioridad a la búsqueda de una solución. Resolver este desafío logístico asegurará la participación total de los 12 idiomas, eliminando barreras y exclusiones. Si bien las sesion digitales y la documentación oficial reciben excelentes servicios de traducción de intérpretes capacitados, los desafíos se presentan durante reuniones digitales informales y reuniones de comités. Hay muchos miembros bilingües del Parlamento que ayudan con las traducciones, pero no siempre es una tarea fácil y deja a algunos miembros del Parlamento parcialmente excluidos de algunos de estos procedimientos. Sin embargo, entendemos que la solución debe extenderse a todos los tipos de reuniones, día a día y, finalmente, a toda la sociedad asgardiana. Ser inclusivo es importante en Asgardia, y esto debe comenzar con el trabajo interno del Parlamento. También el comitè de Comercio ha trabajado en facilitar la comunicación a pesar de las barreras idiomàticas. La semana pasada, durante su última reunión se probaron dos sistemas de traducción simultánea, con resultados bastante irregulares. Uno de los sistemas no alcanzó los estándares aceptables y el otro brindó un soporte limitado. El presidente del Comité, John Fine, resaltó la actitud tan positiva de los diferentes voluntarios que participaron en las pruebas con los traductores, y el espíritu de colaboración y de trabajo a pesar de que todavía no se ha conseguido una solucion ideal. Mr. Fine ha compartido con nosotros también que están trabajando en sistemas de verificación de identidad y en un sistema nuevo que acaban de presentar para procesar propuestas parlamentarias de forma más eficiente. Nos mantendrán informados cuando se prueben y se tomen decisiones sobre estos sistemas. Finalmente, también tenemos noticias del Comité de Información y Comunicación. El comité ha presentado una propuesta para la creación de una biblioteca digital espacial asgardiana. Es un proyecto ambicioso que daría como resultado un potencial beneficio cultural y científico para la nación, sobre el que tendremos más información disponible en un futuro próximo. El Parlamento entiende que establecer canales de comunicación sólidos, multidireccionales, claros y consistentes, es vital para Asgardia y esto ha llevado a la creación de un subcomité de Relaciones Públicas. Se está trabajando para compartir información, lo que está ayudando a mejorar la transparencia; por ejemplo, el Subcomité de Relaciones Públicas está impulsando los planes para incluir información completa sobre todos los MPs, su distrito y los comités en los que trabajan. También se revisaron propuestas de otros comités, como una posible colaboración entre Room, nuestra revista asociada y otras publicaciones similares. Les mantendremos informados de cualquier acuerdo que se pueda alcanzar a este respecto en el futuro. Como ven, cada semana estamos un paso más adelante en nuestro camino, siempre con la vista puesta en nuestro objetivo final. Una humanidad, una unidad.

This week the Parliament of Asgardia has seen considerable movement in the practical aspects of their work, such as translation. The Chairman of Parliament, Lembit Opik has consistently championed the need to have high-quality simultaneous translations that are easily available and financially viable and has placed a high priority on finding a solution. Solving this logistical challenge will ensure the full participation of all 12 languages, removing barriers and exclusions. While Digital Sittings and official documentation receive excellent translation services from skilled interpreters, the challenges come during informal digital meetings and committee meetings. There are many bilingual members of Parliament that help with translations, but it is not always an easy task and it leaves some members of parliament partially excluded from some of these proceedings. However, we understand that the solution should be extended to all types of meetings, day by day, and eventually to the entire Asgardian society. Being inclusive is important in Asgardia, and this must begin with the internal work of Parliament. The Trade and Commerce Committee has also been working on the challenge of communication and last week, during its committee meeting Committee Chairman, John Fine presided over a test of two different simultaneous translation systems. The tests produced quite irregular results with one system falling far short of acceptable standards and the other providing limited support. Chairman Fine highlighted the positive attitude of the volunteers who participated in the tests with the translation software and was encouraged by the spirit of collaboration and work, in spite of the fact that an ideal solution had not yet been achieved. In other work, the Trade and Commerce Committee is working to develop an ID Verification system proposal and another proposal from AMP Michael Chirino on how Parliamentary Proposals can be processed more efficiently. More details are expected to come in the following weeks once more work has been done to test and debate the systems. The final update comes from the Information and Communication Committee who have started to develop a proposal for the creation of an Asgardian ‘Digital Space Library’. It is an ambitious project that was proposed by AMP Ugur Aydin that would result in something of potential cultural and scientific benefit to the nation, but more information will be available on it in the near future. Parliament understands that establishing solid communication channels with a clear and consistent multidirectional strategy is vital for asgardia and this has lead to the creation of a Public Relations subcommittee who will address the task of disseminating information. Work on sharing information is underway which is helping to improve transparency - for instance, the PR Subcommittee is driving plans to include comprehensive information about all AMPs, their district and the committees they sit on. Other proposals were also received from other committees, such as a possible collaboration between Room, our associated magazine, and other similar publications. More information will be shared in the coming weeks regarding any agreements that may be reached. As you can see, each week we are one step further on our journey, always with our sights set on our final goal. One humanity, one unity.

Ha sido otra semana intensa de trabajo para el Parlamento con comités que celebran reuniones regulares y siguen adelante con el proceso de legislar y refinar las prácticas parlamentarias. Durante la semana pasada, el comité de Fabricación acordó que su primera prioridad es definir un documento oficial de estándares, así como un protocolo y la definición de su propio Sistema de Gestión de Proyectos. El presidente del Comité de Fabricación, Fernando Jiménez Motte, comentó que "dado que Asgardia está comenzando a establecer contactos y relaciones con gobiernos e instituciones de todo el mundo, tenemos que establecer todos los estándares así como un sistema de gestión para preparar a la nación para los proyectos con la industria global ”. A raíz del tono de colaboración establecido por el congreso ejecutivo, el Comité de Ciudadanía ha estado colaborando estrechamente con el Ministerio de Ciudadanía en objetivos compartidos. El Comité de Ciudadanía ha estado promoviendo el debate sobre la ciudadanía asgardiana y para determinar el proceso y los requisitos que deben cumplirse para obtener la ciudadanía. La legislación y las propuestas subyacentes son un trabajo complejo y clave para el Comité y el Ministerio de Ciudadanía. Entre los objetivos del Comité está la tarea de apoyar al ministerio a la hora de verificar, organizar y estructurar a los 43 alcaldes asgardianos elegidos. A medida que la nación avanza hacia sus objetivos, estos líderes locales asumirán roles vitales en el corazón de sus comunidades, y ayudarles a ocupar sus posiciones en la infraestructura de Asgardia será un paso clave hacia adelante. Otra tarea importante en la lista para el Comité de Ciudadanía es la enorme tarea de documentar y comprender a la población de Asgardia. Con personas de todo el mundo y numerosos datos demográficos y antecedentes diferentes, señalar las necesidades de las personas no es una tarea tan sencilla como podría parecer. Sin embargo, para servir mejor a los asgardianos, es importante que el Parlamento entienda adecuadamente a sus electores. El Comité de Comercio ha estado trabajando para crear el documento sobre "Política y procedimientos " que marca las directrices sobre cómo debe funcionar el Parlamento. El comité probará y ofrecerá una demostración en vivo de un servicio de traducción simultánea que confían en que ayudará a resolver algunos de los desafíos que enfrentan las comunicaciones internacionales de Asgardia y ayudará a Asgardia a avanzar hacia la inclusión. Se esperan más actualizaciones del comité de Comercio y Comercio en la próxima semana.

It has been another bustling week for Parliament with committees holding regular meeting and pushing ahead with the process of legislating and refining parliamentary practices. Over the past week, the Manufacturing committee agreed that their first priority is to define an official document of standards, as well as a protocol and the definition of their own Project Management System. Chair of the Manufacturing Committee, Fernando Jimenez Motte, commented that “since Asgardia is starting to establish contacts and relationships with Governments and institutions worldwide, we have to set up all the standards as well as a Management System in order to prepare the nation for projects with the global industry”. Following on from the tone of collaboration set by the executive congress, the Citizenship Committee have been working closely with the Ministry of Citizenship, cooperating on their shared objectives. The Citizenship Committee has been working to further the discussion on Asgardian Citizenship and to determine the process and requirements that must be met in order to obtain Citizenship - the legislation and proposals behind this are complex and key work for the Committee and the Ministry of Citizenship. Among the objectives for the Citizenship Committee is the task of verifying, organising and structuring the 43 elected Asgardian Mayors. As the nation moves towards its goals, these local leaders will take up vital roles at the hearts of their communities helping them to occupy their positions in Asgardia’s infrastructure will be a key step forward. Another top task on the list for the Citizenship Committee is the mammoth task of documenting and understanding Asgardia’s population. With people from all over the world and numerous different demographics and backgrounds, pinpointing the needs of the people isn’t as straightforward a task as it might seem. However, in order to best serve the Asgardian people, it’s important for Parliament to properly understand their constituents. The Trade and Commerce Committee has been working to create and accept the policies and procedures documentation that offer guidelines on how Parliament should operate. The committee will be trialling and giving a live demonstration of an instant translation service that they are hopeful will help to solve some of the challenges facing Asgardia’s international communications and will help Asgardia to move towards inclusivity. More updates from the Trade and Commerce committee are expected in the coming week.

El Parlamento asgardiano comenzó oficialmente en junio de 2018. Los diputados fueron elegidos como representantes de todos los asgardianos. Desde entonces, Asgardia ha crecido y cambiado, siempre con la mirada puesta en el futuro que estamos creando. En el Parlamento, siempre recordamos que no estamos aquí para nosotros mismos, sino en representación de todos los que forman parte de Asgardia. A través de una serie de entrevistas, vamos a presentar a nuestros funcionarios electos para que los asgardianos y no asgardianos puedan conocerlos mejor. Es importante entender quiénes son, por qué están en Asgardia, cuál es su visión y cómo podrán representarnos. Después de todo, los parlamentarios son los encargados de aprobar la legislación que está dando forma a la primera Nación Espacial. Hoy estamos hablando con MP Cheryl Gallagher, de los Estados Unidos. La Sra. Gallagher es una mujer que sonríe fácilmente. Describiría mi impresión de ella como muy tranquila al mismo tiempo que muestra una fuerte determinación. Ella responde a nuestras preguntas con la pasión de alguien totalmente comprometido con una tarea. Muy preparada academicamente, serena, Cheryl Gallagher transmite confianza. ¿Por qué se convirtió en asgardiana? ¿Cuál fue su motivación? Vi el primer aterrizaje en la luna cuando era niña, en directo, así como todas las misiones espaciales, con asombro. Visitábamos centros espaciales y museos de ciencia con regularidad porque mis padres pensaban que era importante y sorprendente. Su entusiasmo por todas las cosas relacionadas con el espacio me influyò. Me gustan las aventuras y disfruto viajando, aprendiendo cosas nuevas, siempre con hambre de conocimiento. Hace aproximadamente dos años, escuché sobre Asgardia y me fascinó explorar el potencial que tiene esta Iniciativa Espacial. Fundar una nación de pleno derecho y en el espacio es una gran empresa y no es precisamente fácil. De hecho, nada fácil. Solo han pasado unos años y con nuestras experiencias combinadas estamos progresando constantemente. Una de las razones convincentes para que me involucrara en Asgardia fue esta oportunidad única y la posibilidad de ayudar a manifestar los ideales más altos para la humanidad a medida que sacamos a una nueva civilización fuera de la tierra. Asgardia tiene el potencial de ayudar a proteger y hacer evolucionar a la humanidad misma para el futuro. Qué increíble misión, para crear un gran legado, qué gran proyecto para la comunidad global. Ahora soy un miembro electo oficial de su Parlamento asgardiano, el primero en la historia. Miembro de las Comisiones de Cultura y Asuntos Exteriores. Nos gustaría conocer un poco más sobre la persona detrás del funcionario. ¿Qué puede decirnos sobre usted? Soy una persona poco convencional y hago muchas cosas interesantes. Sin hábito de hacer montañismo, mis primeras experiencias fueron los Himalayas en Nepal y el Tíbet. (Lo hice bien). Estudié Fortran (en la Edad Oscura), escribí mucho en los “ procesadores de texto" de MS-DOS. Pasé los exámenes MENSA. Todos ellos. Fui propietaria de la primera versión de la computadora MacIntosh, (¡ojalá todavía la tuviera!) disco duro de 128KB (es cierto, ¡KB!), Almacenábamos todo en disquetes frágiles e incluso en varias cintas. Recuerdo cuando escuchaba que con la tecnología actual en ese momento, se consideraba imposible lograr más de 1 MB de disco duro. Nunca tuve un teléfono celular tipo “ cajón" pero tuve un "ladrillo" por un tiempo. A medida que las tecnologías avanzaban yo me fascinaba con todos los avances, observando a las empresas romper las barreras tecnológicas que juraban que no podían avanzar más, y seguían aprendiendo y explorando. Soy una ciudadana terrestre amigable, moderada y diplomática, comedida, responsable, paciente y con sentido del humor. Definitivamente soy una de las primeras en adoptar nuevas tecnologías y me considero de mente muy abierta, algo particularmente importante cuando se trabaja con personas de culturas muy diversas. Tuve una larga y exitosa carrera en el área de salud. Ahora soy una artista visual (pintura, fundamentalmente de estilo modernista). También soy consejera / educadora, artista de grabación electrónica ambiental y arpista para el sello de Música de Spotted Peccary, donde toco el arpa eléctrica y un millón de otras cosas acústicas, analógicas y electrónicas, utilizando tecnologías de sonido de vanguardia todos los días. Soy "aficionada" de la historia y también del mundo cuántico. (Física) Sra. Gallagher, ¿cuál es la reacción de la gente cuando les dice que es diputada en Asgardia? "¿Tú eres qué? ¿Eres miembro de una Nación Espacial? ¿De Verdad?" "Espera ... ¿Estás en el Parlamento de este ... Asgardia?" "¡Tienes que estar bromeando!", Así que les digo que no, no estoy bromeando. Soy asgardiana y estoy orgullosa de ello. Me he vuelto bastante hábil para manejar las actitudes de incredulidad y sorpresa de otras personas (especialmente de personas que pensaron que me conocían) cuando hablo de Asgardia. Inevitablemente, la gente se queda atónita y asombrada, pero veo en su mirada respeto y comprensión con solo un poco de curiosidad, incluso un toque de envidia en su mirada. Les hablo de lo que Asgardia es hoy, y dónde estará en el futuro, y mi entusiasmo es contagioso. ¿Qué mensaje le gustaría compartir con todos los que lean esta entrevista, los asgardianos y los no asgardianos? Me gustaría hacerles saber que hay muchas personas como yo, trabajando duro, trabajando con seriedad e integridad, contribuyendo con su tiempo, conocimiento y experiencia de vida para el éxito final de Asgardia. Todos los aspectos de la construcción de una nación están en proceso en este momento, desde la investigación científica hasta el diseño de futuras estructuras espaciales, la economía, nuestros entornos futuros, las infraestructuras legales, sociales y técnicas, la educación, todos los aspectos de nuestra nueva nación. Todos. Hay muchas personas brillantes e interesantes involucradas. Es una empresa increíble. Necesitamos y nos gustaría que muchas más personas vengan y agreguen sus voces, su sabiduría y sus experiencias a esta inversión global en el futuro de la humanidad. En ocasiones puede parecer que los parlamentarios no fueran accesibles, pero de hecho estamos aquí para ayudar, es decir, cualquier persona puede contactar con nosotros si está interesada en participar en el establecimiento de esta nación espacial, multicultural, independientemente financiada. Representamos a todos nuestros seguidores residentes y amigos. Tenemos la edad suficiente para saber por experiencia personal lo rápido y lo lejos que ha llegado la tecnología en un tiempo relativamente corto, y somos lo suficientemente jóvenes como para estar inspirados y motivados a seguir creciendo, aprendiendo y avanzando en conocimiento. Esto es siempre fascinante, incluso cuando no resulta tan fácil. A veces, como en un rascacielos que no se ha terminado de construir, las cosas se van uniendo con el tiempo. A medida que se ensamblan las piezas y los procesos, no todos están de acuerdo con qué partes construir primero, o qué tan rápido se debe proceder, con qué y cómo estamos construyendo. Dicho esto, es un concepto verdaderamente revolucionario, somos un equipo y estamos haciendo todo lo que podemos, explorando no solo las posibilidades de nuestro futuro en el espacio sino también investigando profundamente como un laboratorio viviente, el potencial de la humanidad para trabajar juntos, para aceptar a cada individuo. Con respeto y comprensión, aceptando los dones de sus variadas contribuciones con ecuanimidad y gracia. El proceso parece a veces un poco caótico visto desde fuera; es un lugar concurrido, con mucho tráfico y mucho por hacer. Ninguna nación se construye en un día, así que "tengan paciencia con nuestro desorden de construcción", como dicen ... y confíen en nuestras intenciones, porque estamos unidos en el objetivo de crear un nuevo y hermoso futuro para la humanidad en el espacio . ¿Recuerdan las referencias que hice anteriormente a todas esas tecnologías antiguas, los precursores de los avances inimaginables (en aquel momento) que tenemos hoy? Una y otra vez, la actitud es la misma con cada nuevo desafío: "¡Eso es imposible!". "Nunca lo lograremos,”" ¡simplemente no se puede hacer!" "Los seres humanos nunca sobrevivirán en el espacio!" A veces en nuestra historia, la Luna se decía que estaba hecho de "queso verde" y la tierra era el centro del universo, las personas fueron perseguidas por declarar lo contrario. El tiempo pone todo en su lugar y ahora lo vemos como hechos comprobados o metas alcanzadas. La humanidad ha debido enfrentarse a estos errores contínuamente. Hacemos nuestro mejor esfuerzo, continuamos, seguimos luchando por una nueva era de transformación y evolución. Vengan y visiten Asgardia cuantas veces quieran, y si lo desean, les invitamos a unirse a nosotros en esta misión, esta oportunidad única para personas de todas las naciones y todos los orígenes que se unen y trabajen por este objetivo común: el progreso de la humanidad en el espacio. Les dejo con una famosa canción de John Lennon: "Puedes decir que soy un soñador, Pero no soy el único. Espero que algun dia te nos unas, y el mundo vivirá como uno solo."

Asgardian Parliament officially started in June 0002 (June 2018). MPs were voted as representatives of all Asgardians. Since then Asgardia has grown and changed, always looking to the future that we are creating. In Parliament, we always remember that we are not here for ourselves, but that we represent everyone who is part of Asgardia. MPs are the ones entrusted with the task of passing the legislation that will shape the future of the first Space Nation. We want to get people to know their representatives better, to understand who they are as individuals. We feel that it’s important for everyone to know who they are, why they are in Asgardia and what their vision is. In order to do this, in the coming weeks, the Information and Communication Committee will be holding and publishing interviews with Asgardian Members of Parliament. We start this series of interviews with MP Cheryl Gallagher, from the United States. Ms. Gallagher is a woman that smiles easily. I would describe my impression of her as very peaceful while showing a strong determination at the same time. She responds to our questions with the passion of somebody totally committed to a task. Knowledgeable, serene, Cheryl Gallagher transmits confidence. Q. Why did you become Asgardian? What was your motivation? A. I watched the first moon landing as a child in real time, as well as all the space missions with awe. We visited space centres and science museums regularly because my parents thought it was important and amazing. Their enthusiasm for all things space-related rubbed off on me. I like adventures and I enjoy travel, learning new things, always hungry for knowledge and understanding. About two years ago, I heard about Asgardia and I was fascinated to explore the potential that is this Space Initiative. Founding a globally sourced off-world full-fledged nation is a very big deal and not exactly simple. In fact, it’s not simple at all. It’s only been a few years and using our combined experiences we are making steady progress. One of the compelling reasons for me to become involved in Asgardia was this unique opportunity and the possibility to help manifest the highest ideals for humanity as we take a new civilization off-world. It has the potential to help protect and evolve humanity itself for the future. What an amazing mission, to create a great legacy, what a terrific project for the global community to aspire. Now I am an elected Member of your Asgardian Parliament, the first space parliament in history. Member of the Culture and Foreign Affairs Committees. Q. We would like to know a little more about the person behind the official. What can you tell us about yourself? A. I’m a surprising person and I do a lot of interesting things. I never hiked much or climbed mountains, but the first ranges tackled were the Himalayas in Nepal and Tibet. ( I did fine.) I studied Fortran, (back in the dark ages), typed many letters in MS-DOS “word processing” programs. I passed the MENSA exams. All of them. I owned the first iteration of MacIntosh computer (Wish I still had it!) 128KB hard drive, (that’s right - KB!), we stored everything on oddly-fragile floppy discs, and even various tapes. I remember the assertions that with the then current technology, achieving more than a 1 MB hard drive was considered impossible. I didn’t own a “lunchbox” cell phone, but I had a “brick” one for a while. As technologies advanced, I did too, fascinated with all the many iterations and advances, watching companies breach technological barriers they swore they couldn’t move any farther, and continuing to learn and explore. I’m a solid terrestrial citizen, friendly, moderate and diplomatic, measured in response, responsible, patient, and with a sense of humor. I am definitely an early adopter of new technologies and I consider myself very open-minded, something particularly important when working with people of very diverse cultural backgrounds. During and after a long and successful career in the health profession, I am now a visual artist (painting, mostly, modernist style). I am also a counsellor/ educator, an ambient electronic recording artist, and harpist on the Spotted Peccary Music label, where I play the electric harp and a million other acoustic, analogue and electronic things, using cutting edge sound technologies every day. I am an “aficionado” of World History and the Quantum world. (Physics, that is.) Q. Mrs Gallagher, what is people´s reaction when you tell them that you are an MP in Asgardia? A. “You’re...what? You are a member of a Space Nation? Really?” “Wait...You’re in the Parliament of this... Asgardia?” “You’ve got to be kidding me!” I tell them “No, I’m not kidding. I am Asgardian and proud of it.” I’ve gotten quite adept at managing other people's attitudes of disbelief and surprise (especially from people who thought they knew me) when I talk about Asgardia. Inevitably, I leave people flabbergasted and amazed, yet I spy the look of respect and understanding that remains in their eyes as I walk away, with just a little curiosity, a touch of envy in their look, marvelling. I speak to them of what Asgardia is today, and where it will be in the future, and my enthusiasm is infectious. Q. What message would you like to share with everyone that reads this interview, Asgardians, and non-Asgardians? I would like to let you know that there are many people like me in the background, working hard, working with earnestness and integrity, contributing their time, knowledge and life experience for the ultimate success of Asgardia. All aspects of nation building are in the process right now, from scientific research to designing future space structures to the economy, our future environments, legal, societal and technical infrastructure, education, all aspects of our new nation. All. At. Once. There are many brilliant and interesting people involved. It’s an amazing enterprise. We need and would like many more people just like you, to come and add your voice, your wisdom, your experiences to this global investment in humankind’s future. Sometimes Parliamentarians seem hard to reach, but we are indeed here for you, meaning anyone interested in participating in the establishment of this globally based, as-multicultural-as-it-gets, independently-funded space nation, as well as representing all our established followers, residents, and friends. Reach out to us as we reach out to you. We are people who are both old enough to know from personal experience how fast and how far technology has come in a relatively short time, and young enough to be inspired to keep growing, learning, advancing knowledge and advocating for our growing culture as best we can, fascinated the whole time. Even when the going is not so easy... Things are coming together over time like a skyscraper that isn’t finished being built. As parts and processes are assembled, not everyone always agrees with which parts to build first, or how fast to build, what we are building on and what we are building with. That said, it’s a truly revolutionary concept, we are a team and we are doing our best, exploring not only the possibility of our future in space but deeply investigating as a living laboratory, the potential of humankind to work together, to accept each individual with respect and understanding, receiving and appreciating the gifts of their varied contributions with equanimity and grace. The process appears sometimes a bit chaotic to outsiders; it’s a busy place, lots of traffic, lots going on and much more to do. No nation gets built in a day, so “please have patience with our construction mess”, as they say... and please trust our intentions, for we are unified in the intentional goal of creating a new and beautiful future for humankind in space. Remember the references I made earlier to all those old technologies, the precursors to the unimaginable (at the time) advances we have today? Over and over, the attitude remained with each new challenge, “That’s impossible!” “We will never achieve that, it just can’t be done!” “Humans will never survive in space!” Resistance always happens before revelation occurs. At different times in our history, the moon was said to be made of “green cheese” and the earth was considered the centre of the universe, people were persecuted for stating otherwise, these opposing views that are now given facts. Humankind for all its faults and foibles proves these worn adages wrong all the time, every day. We do our best, we carry on, we continue to struggle forth into a new era of transformation and evolution. So please come and visit Asgardia as often as you like, and if so inclined, you are welcome to join us in this mission, this unique opportunity for people of all nations, and all backgrounds to come together and work for this common goal of humanity’s progress into space. I leave you with some famous lyrics of John Lennon’s: “You may say I'm a dreamer, But I'm not the only one. I hope someday you'll join us, and the world will live as one.”

Today’s update on the activities of Parliament comes from the Committees of Foreign Affairs, Justice and Safety & Security. Over the past month, the Deputy Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee Sergii Sergieliev, and his committee members have been pouring their efforts into three main areas that put a firm focus on Asgardia’s future. The committee has been reviewing the details of the committee’s presentation that was delivered at the Executive Congress, Brainstorming ideas for collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and finally, taking the initial steps required for the creation of International Protocols that will be used when Asgardian officials are connecting with other nations and organizations. While the majority of AMPs are able to commit significant time to Asgardia, AMP Sergiev stated that the Parliament of Asgardia is considering what to do regarding a small number of Parliamentarians that aren’t able to commit as much time due to other commitments that prevent them from attending meetings or other undertaking other regular tasks that AMPs perform on a weekly basis. AMP Sotirios A Mouzakitis, Chairman of the Justice Committee and attorney at law, reflected on the fact that Legislation has to be made simultaneously between different committees, as most of the bills are related to more than one area. It is vital, therefore, that all areas related to each specific bill are coordinated so they can work in an efficient way. The Justice committee is one of the busiest, as it is in charge of reviewing every legislative proposal, as mandated per the Act of Acts, to ensure that policies or proposals created are in accordance with the Constitution. As for the Safety & Security Committee, AMP Christian Böhler, Chair of the Committee, shared their short and long term objectives that were explained in the Executive Congress in Vienna. For 2019 The SSC is already working on some vital projects. For instance, they are regulating security standards for the systems used in Asgardia, creating more secure communications, and developing guidelines to ensure the safety of all Asgardian citizens. As for the long term projects they are working on different protocols related to diplomacy as well as Emergency Response Team & Protocols. The AMPs working in the Parliament of Asgardia is totally determined and fully committed to helping in the creation of a strong and solid Space Nation. Soon Asgardians will be able to get to know them better through profile pages that will be linked to the alphabetically ordered list of AMPs as well as another for the members of each committee.

Asgardia é a primeira nação espacial da história. Em si, isso torna uma nação especial, mas sob uma inspeção mais próxima, Asgardia é diferente por muitas outras razões. A Constituição descreve claramente as funções dos ministros e dos membros do Parlamento como poderes independentes; no entanto, é fácil ver como parlamentares e ministros estão criando sinergia em seu trabalho. Não ter partidos políticos faz do governo local uma unidade onde as questões são discutidas de um ponto de vista pragmático e o trabalho é enfrentado da mesma maneira. Enquanto todo mundo é claro sobre o seu papel, a colaboração é fundamental quando se enfrenta a tarefa de criar uma nova nação. Um exemplo da sinergia que está se desenvolvendo em Asgardia foi notável durante a bem sucedida visita à Cidade do México da Dra. Olimpia Niglio, Ministra da Cultura de Asgardia. Nos três dias que durou a visita, o Dr. Niglio foi acompanhado pelos parlamentares Amelia Cortès e Elías Lòpez, que colaboraram ativamente na preparação e logística da visita. Durante o primeiro dia de sua visita, a Dra. Niglio apresentou um livro do qual é autora, na sede do Instituto Italiano de Cultura. Em sua apresentação, falou sobre a importância da cultura como uma ponte entre diferentes nações e aproveitou a oportunidade para mencionar Asgardia um paralelo entre o país de origem e do planeta, e como Asgardia é a resposta para criar o nosso futuro lar no espaço. No segundo dia de sua visita ao México, e sempre acompanhada pelos parlamentares de Cortès e López, o Dr. Niglio visitou o escritório cultural da Embaixada da Itália no México. Durante a apresentação do livro "Arquitetos, Engenheiros e Artistas dos séculos XIX e XX", ele teve a oportunidade de conversar com o Sr. Luigi Maccotta, Embaixador da Itália no México. o fato de que este evento participaram também Correspondente do Vaticano no México, nicona Nicoletti, que, de acordo com a MP Amelia CORTES, manifestaram interesse em ser correspondente Asgardia na América Latina aproveitando a cobertura disponível internacionalmente é dado. Finalmente, na quarta-feira, 8 de maio, o Ministro Niglio e os Parlamentares Cortés e López, como representantes da Asgardia, visitaram a sede da Agência Espacial Mexicana na Cidade do México. Durante esta visita foi mantido um diálogo muito produtivo com o Dr. Francisco Javier Mendieta, Diretor Geral da AEM e o Sr. Carlos Duarte Muñoz, Coordenador Geral de Formação de Capital Humano no Campo Espacial. Importante, houve uma apresentação do que é Asgardia e seus objetivos durante esta reunião, e propôs para formalizar um acordo para a coordenação e colaboração entre a Agência e Asgardia, incluindo um programa de actividades conjuntas. No final da visita ao AEM, o Dr. Niglio foi entrevistado por Ariadne Gallardo para o Retro Channel 103.1 FM, RASA Chain. Ariadne, além de ser uma grande profissional de radiodifusão, é também parlamentar da Asgardia e colaborou ativamente para que a viagem da ministra Olimpia Niglio fosse um sucesso. Em sua entrevista, o Dr. Niglio destacou a disposição favorável do Dr. Mendieta não apenas para assinar acordos, mas principalmente para trabalhar e colaborar ativamente em projetos e atividades conjuntas. Espera-se que outros membros do Parlamento e funcionários do governo, bem como prefeitos, estabeleçam um diálogo com diferentes representantes de todo o mundo. Afinal, a maioria dos países do mundo tem cidadãos asgardianos com uma visão clara: Uma Humanidade, Uma Unidade.

Asgardia es la primera Nación Espacial de la historia. En sí mismo, eso lo convierte en una nación especial, pero bajo una inspección más cercana, Asgardia es diferente por muchas otras razones. La Constitución describe claramente las funciones de los ministros y los miembros del Parlamento como poderes independientes; sin embargo, es fácil ver cómo los parlamentarios y los ministros están creando sinergia en su trabajo. No tener partidos políticos hace que el gobierno local sea una unidad donde los temas se discuten desde un punto de vista pragmático y el trabajo se enfrenta de la misma manera. Si bien todos tienen claro su rol, la colaboración es primordial cuando uno se enfrenta a la tarea de crear una nueva Nación. Un ejemplo de la sinergia que se está desarrollando en Asgardia fue notable durante la exitosa visita a la Ciudad de México de la Dra. Olimpia Niglio, Ministra de Cultura de Asgardia. En los tres dias que durò la visita, la Dra Niglio estuvo acompañada por los parlamentarios Amelia Cortès y Elías Lòpez, que colaboraron activamente en la preparación y la logìstica de la visita. Durante el primer dia de su visita, La Dra. Niglio presentó un libro del que es autora, en la sede del Instituto Italiano de Cultura. En su presentación, hablò sobre la importancia de la cultura como puente entre diferentes naciones, y aprovechó para mencionar Asgardia en un paralelismo entre el hogar, el país y el planeta, y como Asgardia es la respuesta para crear nuestro futuro hogar en el espacio. El segundo día de su visita a Mexico, y siempre acompañada por los parlamentrios Cortès y López, la Dra. Niglio visitò la oficina cultural de la Embajada de Italia en Mexico. Durante la presentación del libro "Arquitectos, Ingenieros y Artistas de los siglos XIX y XX", tuvo la ocasión de dialogar con el señor Luigi Maccotta, Embajador de Italia en Mexico. Se da la circunstancia de que a este evento acudiò tambièn el Corresponsal del Vaticano en México, Nicona Nicoletti, quien, según MP Amelia Cortès, manifestó su interés en ser corresponsal de Asgardia en América Latina aprovechando la cobertura de la que dispone a nivel internacional. Por último, el miércoles 8 de mayo La ministra Niglio y los Parlamentarios Cortés y López como representantes de Asgardia visitaron la sede de la Agencia Espacial Mexicana en Mexico City. Durante esta visita se mantuvo un diàlogo muy productivo con el Dr. Francisco Javier Mendieta, Director General de la AEM y Don Carlos Duarte Muñoz, Coordinador General de Formación de Capital Humano en el Campo Espacial. Es importante destacar que durante esta reunión se hizo una presentación de lo que es Asgardia y sus objetivos, y se propuso formalizar un convenio de coordinación y colaboración entre la Agencia y Asgardia, incluyendo un programa de actividades conjuntas. Al finalizar la visita en la AEM la Doctora Niglio fue entrevistada por Ariadne Gallardo para el Canal Retro 103.1 FM, Cadena RASA. Ariadne además de ser una gran profesional en radiodifusiòn también es parlamentaria de Asgardia y colaborò activamente para que el viaje de la Ministra Olimpia Niglio fuera todo un éxito. En su entrevista, la Doctora Niglio resaltó la favorable disposición del Doctor Mendieta no solamente para firmar acuerdos si no sobre todo para trabajar y colaborar activamente en proyectos y actividades conjuntos. Se prevé que otros miembros del Parlamento y funcionarios gubernamentales, así como alcaldes, establezcan un diálogo con diferentes representantes de todo el mundo. Después de todo, la mayoría de los países del mundo tienen ciudadanos asgardianos con una visión clara: Una Humanidad, Una Unidad.

Abril fue un mes intenso políticamente en Asgardia, y el Parlamento tiene varias actualizaciones para compartir con ustedes. Empecemos con algunas impresiones del Congreso Ejecutivo que tuvo lugar en Viena entre el 10 y el 12 de abril. Este evento histórico ha sido importante por dos razones principales. Primero, porque fue la presentación del recién formado Gobierno de Asgardia con sus 12 ministros. Segundo, porque fue la primera oportunidad oficial para que ambos, los ministros y los presidentes de los comités parlamentarios trabajen juntos. El presidente del Comité de Manufactura, Parlamentario Fernando Jiménez Motte, comentó después del evento que estuvo muy bien organizado, particularmente considerando que el evento tuvo lugar al mismo tiempo que la segunda sesión virtual del Parlamento. En sus propias palabras, "fue positivo el hecho de que tuvimos la oportunidad de establecer puentes entre los comités así como entre los ministros y los presidentes de los comités para acelerar el éxito de Asgardia". Si bien el evento tuvo una organización excelente, Asgardia superó una variedad de desafíos logísticos y técnicos que sirvieron como lecciones valiosas para futuros congresos y sesiones digitales. El presidente del Comité de Comercio, Parlamentario John Fine, comentó sobre el Congreso Ejecutivo celebrado en Viena que "en conjunto, fue una conferencia maravillosa con muchos grandes avances que tendrán un gran impacto en el éxito de Asgardia". El Parlamentario Fine hizo una excelente presentación sobre lo que el comité ha estado haciendo, así como los planes a corto, medio y largo plazo para el comité de Comercio de Asgardia. Mencionó su colaboración con otros comités de legislación. Por ejemplo, están trabajando con el Comité de Equidad y Recursos en el proyecto de legislación "Ley de Actividades y Proyectos de Asgardia"; con el Comité de Ciencias en la edición y revisión de la legislación sobre Cooperación Internacional en los “Usos Pacíficos de la Resolución del Espacio Ultraterrestre” que esperan tener lista para la revisión del Parlamento pronto. En cuanto al trabajo que está realizando actualmente el Parlamento, la primera actualización de hoy es del presidente del Comité de Ciencia, Parlamentario Luca Sorriso-Valvo. Cuando se le preguntó sobre el trabajo de su comité, el Parlamentario Sorriso-Valvo compartió con nosotros que en sus reuniones regulares comenzaron estableciendo las prioridades del comité, definiendo los roles en el comité y sus grupos de trabajo. Sorriso-Valvo ha descrito varias áreas que son muy relevantes para las necesidades actuales de Asgardia que el comité está examinando actualmente, tales como temas ambientales, así como el tema de fondos para la investigación. A continuación, tenemos la actualización del siempre ocupado Comité del Ciudadanía. La presentación del Ministro de Ciudadanía, Ron Schechter, y el Presidente del Comité de Ciudadanía, Ben Dell, mostró la estrecha interacción entre el Ministerio y la comisión parlamentaria y sus miembros. El Comité de Ciudadanía está en conversaciones con la Ministra Elizabeth Díaz de Educación para permitir que los Parlamentarios de Asgardia obtengan capacitación específica en investigación y redacción legislativa. El comité también mantuvo conversaciones con el ministro Leon Shpilsky y el presidente del Tribunal Supremo Zhao Yun sobre los aspectos legales y financieros de la ciudadanía en Asgardia. El día de hoy, el Comité de Información y Comunicación está trabajando para encontrar formas de que el Parlamento sea más accesible a los ciudadanos a través de las redes sociales y otras posibles opciones digitales. El presidente del Comité de Información y Comunicación, Dennis Shoemaker, también confirmó que el comité está trabajando actualmente en la legislación relativa a dos de los mandatos constitucionales del comité que tendrían un impacto directo y positivo en los ciudadanos. La primera es la legislación basada en el Artículo 6 que se refiere al tratamiento de datos personales en la Base de datos espacial de Asgardia para convertirse en ciudadano, y la segunda, basada en el Artículo 22, relativa a la protección de datos personales en Asgardia. El Presidente Shoemaker destacó también el hecho de que el comité está coordinando con el Ministerio de Información y Comunicación sobre la legislación necesaria para el trabajo y los proyectos ministeriales. Hablando con los presidentes de nuestros comités hay un cálido sentimiento de bienvenida hacia nuestros nuevos ministros. El parlamento ha estado trabajando durante casi un año, y estamos animados por la creación del gobierno como una asociación positiva, ya que representa la finalización de todas las ramas del gobierno asgardiano. Además, esto aumentará en gran medida la productividad del gobierno asgardiano ahora que podrá comenzar a trabajar en proyectos vitales para el crecimiento financiero de Asgardia. El Parlamento espera con interés trabajar con nuestros 12 ministros y ayudarlos a tener éxito en su misión mientras construimos nuestra joven nación. Juntos podemos construir un gobierno de Asgardia más fuerte, que sea capaz y esté listo para guiar a Asgardia hacia el futuro.

April was a busy month for politics in Asgardia, and Parliament has several updates to share with you. Let's start with some impressions from the Executive Congress that took place in Vienna between the 10th and 12th of April. This historic event is important for two main reasons. First, because it was the presentation of the newly formed Government of Asgardia with its 12 ministers. Second, because it was the first official opportunity for both, the ministers and the committee chairs of parliament to work together. The Chair of Manufacturing Committee, Asgardian Member of Parliament (AMP) Fernando Jimenez Motte, commented after the event that it was very well organized, particularly considering that the event took place at the same time as the second Parliament Virtual Session. In his own words, “it was positive the fact that we had the opportunity to establish bridges between committees as well as between ministers and committee chairs in order to accelerate Asgardia ́s success”. While the event was well supported, Asgardia overcame a variety of logistic and technical challenges that served as valuable lessons for future congress and digital sittings. Chairman of the Trade and Commerce Committee, John Fine, commented about the Executive Congress held in Vienna that “all in all it was a wonderful conference with many great steps forward that will have a huge impact on the success of Asgardia”. AMP. Fine gave a great presentation about what the committee has been doing, as well as the short, medium and long term plans for Asgardia’s Trade and Commerce. He mentioned their partnership with other committees on legislation. For instance, they are working with the Equity and Resources Committee on the draft legislation ”Asgardia Activities and Projects Act”; with the Science Committee in editing and revising legislation on International Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space Resolution which they hope to have ready for parliament review soon. As for the work that Parliament is currently doing, the first update today is from Chairman of the Science committee, Luca Sorriso-Valvo. When asked about his committee’s work, he said that in their regular meetings they started by establishing committee priorities, defining the roles in the committee and their working groups. Chairman Sorriso-Valvo outlined several areas that are very relevant to the current needs of Asgardia which the committee is currently looking into such as, environmental issues, as well as researching funding. Next, we have the update from the ever-busy Citizenship Committee. The presentation of the Citizenship Committee Chair, Ben Dell, showed the close interaction between the Ministry and the parliamentary committee and its members. The Citizenship Committee is in discussions with Minister Elizabeth Diaz from Education to enable AMPS to get Asgardia Specific Training in Legislative Research and Legislative Drafting. The committee also held discussions with Minister Leon Shpilsky and Chief Justice Zhao Yun on the legal aspects and financial aspects of Citizenship in Asgardia. Last today, the Information and Communication Committee is working at finding ways for Parliament to be more accessible to citizens through social media as well as other possible digital options. Information and Communication Committee Chairman, Dennis Shoemaker also confirmed that the committee is currently working on legislation concerning two of the committee's constitutional mandates that would have a direct and positive impact on citizens. The first is legislation based on Article 6 pertains to submitting personal data to Asgardia’s Space Database in order to become a citizen, and the second one, based on Article 22, pertaining to the protection of personal data in Asgardia. Overall, Chairman Shoemaker highlighted the fact that the committee is coordinating with the Ministry of Information and Communication on needed legislation for ministry work and projects. Talking to our committee chairs there is a warm welcoming sentiment towards our new ministers. Parliament has been working for almost a year now, and we are energized by the creation of Government as a positive partnership as it represents the completion of all branches of Asgardian government. Furthermore, this will greatly increase the productivity of the Asgardian government now that it will be able to start working on projects vital to the financial growth of Asgardia. The Parliament is looking forward to working with our 12 ministers and helping them to succeed in their mission as we build our young nation. Together we can build a stronger Asgardia government, one that is capable and ready to guide Asgardia into the future.