Proxy Wars

## Overview

Proxy wars have become an increasingly common phenomenon in the galactic scene, serving as a method for governments to challenge each other, assert dominance, and act on political tensions without direct confrontation. These wars occur primarily on the fringes of territorial borders, in areas contested by the major powers. The nature and execution of these wars can vary significantly, but they invariably involve one or more governments lending support to factions on a "primitive" world.

## Context: The Cold War and Galactic Powers

Since the end of the Somm War, the galactic scene has been in a state of what is effectively a cold war, with the Mission, the Union of Planets, and the Red Mission at its forefront. Despite the lasting damage to her image, Grand Ambassador Corteal of the Mission remains a dominant figure in the scene due to the long-lived nature of the Sora.

The Mission, known for its policy of interventionism, often instigates proxy wars in a bid to uplift and integrate primitive species along the borders they share with the Union and the Red Mission. When the Union is involved, the interventionism stance directly opposes the Union's commitment to self-determinism for primitive species. The Red Mission, while sharing the Mission's goal of uplifting species, seeks to do so in a manner they claim is more ethical.

## Proxy Wars as a Strategy

Governments often use proxy wars to challenge each other and assert their influence over contested territories. This allows them to avoid open hostility and maintain the status quo of the ongoing cold war. These wars are also closely watched by the broader galactic scene, making them a popular topic and a high-stakes arena for the officers involved. A successful campaign can boost their reputation, while defeat can prove disastrous for their careers.

## The Importance of Command Structure

The advanced militaries involved in these conflicts often feature looser command structures than those seen in primitive species. This structure allows for a higher degree of autonomy in the field and promotes flexibility and improvisation. As a result, these advanced militaries are better suited to adapt to the rapidly changing dynamics of a proxy war.

## Proxy Wars and the Mission's Strategy

Proxy wars have become a common tool for the Mission to assert dominance over the Union of Planets without provoking the Frex, a traditionally neutral party. The Somm War, where the Frex threatened to provide advanced war technology to the Union, is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of overstepping boundaries. This memory significantly influences the Mission's strategic planning and acts as a restraint, preventing direct conflict with the Union or the Frex.

There is also speculation within the galactic scene that the Mission's frequent involvement in proxy wars is a strategy to strengthen its border defenses against the Union and the Red Mission. Some theorize that if a balance-shifting event were to occur, such as a significant technological breakthrough, the Mission wants to be in a position to capitalize on it.

## Controversies and Criticism

Grand Ambassador Corteal's apparent indifference to the fate of uplifted species in these wars has led to a cynical view of her motivations. Many see these victories as mere points scored in her favor, which has raised concerns about the Mission's overall goals.

Another contentious aspect of the Mission's interventionism policy is the Law of 55. Critics argue that this rule allows the Mission to exploit a loophole that undermines the sovereignty of primitive species. This law states that the Mission only needs to find 55 members of a species willing to join their government to establish an official body within the Mission, granting them the responsibility of protecting and uplifting the entire species.

## Examples of Proxy Wars

The Callaxian Civil War, which began in 347C, is the current proxy war. It involves all three major governments. These proxy wars are most commonly won by the Mission. But the Kyrrnaki Proxy War that ended in 344C resulted in a somewhat unusual Union victory. Del, a Union officer that was involved with this proxy war, is now the Union's top agent acting in the Callaxian Civil War due in part to her excellent service among the Kyrrnaki.