Brandkust

## Country Flag

### Religions:

Protestant (46%), Polynesian indigenous beliefs (24%), Catholic (15%), Agnostic/Atheist (11%), Other (4%)

## Economy

### Currency:

Brandish Guilder (Brandse Gulden, BG)1 BG = 0.55 USD

## Other facts

### Internet TLD:

.bk

Brandkust, officially the Republic of Brandkust, is a country in the Konores Archipelago, located on the island of Calegas. It shares borders with Campunay to the south, Estua to the east, and Ouesta to the north. The Pacific Ocean lies to the west. The country was once a Dutch colony, gaining its status as a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1971 before achieving full independence on November 25, 1975.

Brandkust is considered a culturally Easternmost Pacific country, and is a member of the Pacific Alliance, the Konores Archipelago Community, and the Calegassian Union, and an observer of the Pacific Islands Forum.

## Etymology

The name "Brandkust" comes from the Dutch words "brand" (fire) and "kust" (coast), which reflect the early Dutch settlers' experience with the island's volcanic activity and its coastal location.

## History

The Konores Archipelago was discovered by Europeans in 1811, with Dutch colonization of Brandkust starting in 1820. Between 1820 and 1970, Brandkust underwent significant political, economic, and social changes. In 1823, Dutch explorers established the first permanent settlement on the island, and the region soon became an important colonial outpost for the Dutch East India Company. The fertile land and strategic location of Brandkust proved valuable for the Dutch, who cultivated cash crops such as sugarcane and coffee, and established trading posts along the coast. Over time, the local population grew as settlers from the Netherlands, as well as other European countries, arrived in Brandkust, bringing with them their customs, language, and religion. This influx of settlers also led to the development of a unique creole language and culture, influenced by both Dutch and Polynesian traditions.

Throughout the 19th century, Brandkust maintained strong relations with other European colonies in the Konores Archipelago, including the German colonial efforts with settlements such as Köppenhausen and Feuerstadt. The German influence manifested in the form of cultural exchanges, trade, and joint ventures in colonial development. Prior to World War I, German colonizers established trading posts and invested in infrastructure projects in Brandkust, fostering a level of cooperation between the Dutch and German colonial administrations.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the colonial administration in Brandkust worked to expand and modernize the island's infrastructure, building roads, railways, and ports to support the growing economy. During World War I, Brandkust remained largely unaffected by the conflict, as the island was distant from the main theaters of war. However, the war's impact on the global economy disrupted trade and led to shortages in essential goods, creating hardships for the local population. In World War II, Brandkust was briefly occupied by Japanese forces, leading to a period of turmoil and suffering for the people. Following the end of the war, the Dutch regained control of the territory and set out to rebuild the island's infrastructure and economy.

In the 1950s and 1960s, a wave of socialist and anti-colonial sentiment, known as the "Red Ripple," swept through the Konores Archipelago, leading to the independence of Samico and Zambor and plunging the neighboring island of Riojania into a violent civil war. Samico became a socialist state, while Zambor fell under the rule of a military dictatorship. These political changes in the region influenced the people of Brandkust, who began to question their own colonial status and push for increased autonomy.

As the international political climate shifted during the mid-20th century, the push for decolonization and self-determination grew stronger among the people of Brandkust. The Dutch government, recognizing the growing calls for independence, decided to grant their colonies Brandkust and Suriname their independence in a coordinated effort known as the "Dual Emancipation." This simultaneous move allowed the Dutch to focus on the transition process for both territories while avoiding the potential for unrest and upheaval in the region. In 1975, both Brandkust and Suriname declared their independence, marking the end of the Dutch colonial presence in the Calegas Archipelago.

## Geography

Brandkust is situated on the island of Calegas in the Konores Archipelago. It has a diverse landscape, including coastal plains, volcanic mountains, and tropical rainforests. Its climate is predominantly tropical, with a wet and dry season.

## Demographics

The population of Brandkust is a mix of indigenous peoples and descendants of Dutch settlers. The official language is Brandish, a Dutch-influenced creole with Polynesian influences. The majority of the population is Protestant (60%), with significant Catholic (25%) and Animist (10%) minorities.

## Government and politics

Brandkust is a parliamentary democracy with a multi-party system. The head of government is the Gouverneur, and the cabinet is composed of Bestuurders who head various ministries. The legislative body is the Brandkust Parliament.

## Economy

The economy of Brandkust is diverse, with major industries including agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The currency is the Brandish Guilder (BG), with a value of 1 BG equal to 0.55 USD. Brandkust's HDI is 0.745, reflecting a medium level of human development.

## Culture

Brandkust's culture is a fusion of Dutch and Polynesian influences, visible in its language, cuisine, and art. Traditional dance and music are popular, often featuring a blend of European and indigenous elements.

## Foreign relations and military

Brandkust maintains diplomatic relations with many countries and is a member of various international organizations. Its foreign policy is focused on regional integration within the Calegas island and promoting economic cooperation. The Brandkust Armed Forces consist of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the Bestuurder Defensie Zaken overseeing the defense ministry.

In recent years, Brandkust has taken an active role in regional security, particularly in relation to the ongoing civil war in Campunay. While its involvement has been primarily focused on securing its borders and maintaining stability in the region, Brandkust has also provided humanitarian aid and facilitated peace talks among the warring factions in Campunay.

Brandkust's military involvement in Campunay has been limited compared to that of other countries, that have pursued territorial expansion and active military campaigns. The Republic of Brandkust has, however, cooperated with its neighbors in Calegas, working together to address the regional challenges posed by the conflict in Campunay.

## Education

Education in Brandkust is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16 and is provided by a mix of public and private institutions. The country's education system is influenced by its Dutch colonial history, with a strong emphasis on bilingualism and critical thinking. Higher education is available at the University of Brandkust and several technical colleges, offering a range of degree programs and vocational training.

## Transport

Brandkust has a well-developed transport infrastructure, including roads, railways, and ports. The country's main international airport, Brandkust International, serves as a hub for regional and international flights. Domestic air travel is facilitated by a network of smaller airports and airfields. The public transportation system consists of buses, ferries, and a limited urban rail network in the capital city.

## Tourism

Tourism is an important industry for Brandkust, contributing significantly to its economy. The country's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm climate attract visitors from around the world. Popular tourist attractions include the historic Dutch colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and the lush tropical rainforests that cover much of the island.

## Sports

Sport plays a significant role in Brandkust's culture, with football being the most popular sport, followed by volleyball, basketball, and traditional Polynesian sports. The country has a national football team that competes in regional and international competitions, as well as several club teams that participate in domestic leagues.

## Environment

Brandkust is committed to protecting its unique environment and biodiversity. The country has several national parks and protected areas, which serve as habitats for endemic species and offer opportunities for ecotourism. The government has implemented policies to promote sustainable development, including the use of renewable energy sources and the reduction of plastic waste.

## See also

* Konores Archipelago
* Calegas
* Campunay
* Dutch colonization in the Pacific

## External links

* Official Brandkust Government Website
* Brandkust Tourism Board
* The University of Brandkust