Difference between revisions of "United Federation of Planets"

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| location          = [[Alpha Quadrant]], [[Beta Quadrant]]
 
| location          = [[Alpha Quadrant]], [[Beta Quadrant]]
 
| capital          = [[Earth]]
 
| capital          = [[Earth]]
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| head of state      = [[President of the United Federation of Planets]]
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| head of state      = [[Federation_President|President of the United Federation of Planets]]
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| head of government = [[President of the United Federation of Planets]]
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| head of government = [[Federation_President|President of the United Federation of Planets]]
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| legislature        = [[Federation Council]]
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| legislature        = Federation Council
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| judiciary          = [[Federation Supreme Court]]
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| judiciary          = Federation Supreme Court
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| major species      = See [[Federation members]]
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| major species      = All Federation members
 
| military          = [[Star Fleet|Federation Star Fleet]]
 
| military          = [[Star Fleet|Federation Star Fleet]]
 
| intelligence service = [[Star Fleet Intelligence Corps|Federation Star Fleet Intelligence]]
 
| intelligence service = [[Star Fleet Intelligence Corps|Federation Star Fleet Intelligence]]
 
| language          =  
 
| language          =  
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| currency          = [[Federation credit]]
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| currency          = [[United_Federation_of_Planets#Economy|Federation credit]]
 
}}
 
}}
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:"''A dream that became a reality and spread throughout the stars.''"  
 
:"''A dream that became a reality and spread throughout the stars.''"  
 
::- Captain [[James T. Kirk]]
 
::- Captain [[James T. Kirk]]
  
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The '''United Federation of Planets''' (abbreviated as '''UFP''' and commonly referred to as '''The Federation''') is an interstellar federal republic, composed of [[planet|planetary]] [[government]]s that agreed to exist semi-autonomously under a single central government based on the principles of universal liberty, rights, and equality, and to share their knowledge and resources in peaceful cooperation and [[space]] exploration. The [[Star Fleet|Federation Star Fleet]] was incorporated as the [[military|peace-keeping]] and [[humanitarian]] [[armada]] of the Federation , in addition to exploratory, scientific, and diplomatic functions.
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 +
The '''United Federation of Planets''' (abbreviated as '''UFP''' and commonly referred to as '''The Federation''') is an interstellar federal republic. It is composed of [[planet|planetary]] [[government]]s that agreed to exist semi-autonomously, under a single central government, based on the principles of universal liberty, rights, and equality. They have also agreed to share their knowledge and resources in peaceful cooperation and [[space]] exploration. The [[Star Fleet|Federation Star Fleet]] was incorporated into this government in order to serve the [[military|peace-keeping]] and [[humanitarian]] [[armada]] of the Federation, in addition to exploratory, scientific, and diplomatic functions.  
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
 
[[Image:FederationFoundation2161.jpg|thumb|The founding ceremony of the Federation in 2161]]
 
[[Image:FederationFoundation2161.jpg|thumb|The founding ceremony of the Federation in 2161]]
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[[Image:FederationFoundingSpecies.jpg|thumb|Four of the five founding species of the Federation (clockwise from top left): Humans, Vulcans, Andorians, and Tellarites.]]
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[[Image:FederationFoundingSpecies.jpg|thumb|Four of the five founding species of the Federation (clockwise from top left): [[Human]]s, [[Vulcan]]s, [[Andorian]]s, and [[Tellarite]]s.]]
 
[[Image:AlphaCentauran.jpeg|thumb|Alpha Centauran, one of the five founding species of the Federation.]]
 
[[Image:AlphaCentauran.jpeg|thumb|Alpha Centauran, one of the five founding species of the Federation.]]
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The Federation was founded in San Francisco, [[Earth]] in [[2161]]. The seeds of the Federation were planted during a temporary alliance in [[2154]], in the search for a [[Romulan drone ship]]. It was this that first brought together the five species that would found the Federation: [[Human]]s, [[Vulcan]]s, [[Andorian]]s, [[Tellarite]]s, and [[Alpha Centauran]]s. After the crisis, these four species remained together, founding the precursor to the Federation, called the [[Coalition of Planets]], a year later. Other species soon joined: the [[Denobulan]]s, the [[Rigelian]]s, the [[Coridanite]]s, and several others. Over the next several years, the ties between the members of the Coalition strengthened and became more structured, until, finally, in 2161, the Coalition became the Federation.
 
  
−
Although the Federation's intentions were peaceful, around it were other, more belligerent powers such as the [[Klingon Empire|Klingon]] and [[Romulan Empire]]s. As it expanded through the admittance of more and more worlds, it came into conflict with these powers. In the [[23rd century]], its main adversary was the Klingon Empire, with war briefly erupting between the two in [[2267]], before being halted by the [[Organian]]s. However, tensions eased considerably towards the end of the century, with the [[Khitomer Conference]] of [[2293]] being a substantial turning point. This conference saw the signing of to the [[Khitomer Accords]], which effectively ended hostile relations.
+
The Federation was founded in [[San Francisco]], [[Earth]] in [[2161]]. The seeds of the Federation were planted during a temporary alliance in [[2154]], in the cooperative search for a [[Romulan]] drone ship. This search brought these species together for the first time, and they would late become the founder of the Federation: [[Human]]s, [[Vulcan]]s, [[Andorian]]s, [[Tellarite]]s, and [[Alpha Centauran]]s. After the crisis, these four species remained together, founding the precursor to the Federation, called the [[Coalition of Planets]]. Other species soon joined: the [[Denobulan]]s, the [[Rigelian]]s, and several others. Over the next several years, ties between the members of the [[Coalition of Planets|Coalition]] strengthened, becoming more structured, and in [[2161]], the [[Coalition of Planets|Coalition]] became the '''Federation'''.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Although the Federation's intentions were peaceful, it was surrounded by belligerent powers such as the [[Klingon Empire|Klingon]] and [[Romulan Empire]]s. As the Federation expanded through the admittance of more and more worlds, it came into conflict with these two powers. In the [[23rd century]], the Federation's main adversary was the [[Klingon Empire]], with war briefly erupting between the two in [[2267]], before being halted by the [[Organian]]s. However, tensions eased considerably towards the end of the century, with the [[Khitomer Conference]] of [[2293]] being a substantial turning point. This conference saw the signing of to the [[Khitomer Accords]], which effectively ended hostile relations between the [[Klingon]]s and the Federation.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
At the start of the [[24th century]], the Federation began an unprecedented period of peaceful exploration of the galaxy, free of major conflicts. However, relations with the Romulans remained hostile, albeit at a low, 'cold war' level. There were also a series of local conflicts in the late [[2340s]], as the Federation came into contact with other militant races such as the [[Cardassian]]s, the [[Talarian]]s, the [[Tholian]]s and the [[Tzenkethi]].
  
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At the start of the [[24th century]], the Federation began an unprecedented period of peaceful exploration of the galaxy, free of major conflicts, as its main adversary of the previous century, the Klingon Empire, was now at peace with it. However, relations with the Romulans remained hostile, albeit at a low, 'cold war' level. There was also a series of local conflicts in the late [[2340s]], as the Federation came into contact with other militant races such as the [[Cardassian]]s, the [[Talarian]]s, the [[Tholian]]s and the [[Tzenkethi]].
 
  
 
[[Image:Borg_cube_engaged_at_Sector_001.jpg|thumb|Star Fleet forces engaging the Borg.]]
 
[[Image:Borg_cube_engaged_at_Sector_001.jpg|thumb|Star Fleet forces engaging the Borg.]]
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Then, however, the period of peaceful exploration came to an abrupt end. In [[2365]], the Federation encountered its single worst threat in the cybernetic pseudo-race known as the [[Borg]]. One of the most powerful and destructive forces in the entire galaxy, the Borg twice invaded the Federation within less than a decade. They were unlike anything the Federation had ever encountered, and were only foiled by chance and resourcefulness. The Federation was thus schooled in the fact that, in the vast, unexplored reaches of the galaxy beyond what they knew, there were threats that they could not even imagine.
+
In [[2365]], the period of peaceful exploration came to an abrupt end. The Federation encountered its single worst threat: the cybernetic pseudo-race known as the [[Borg]]. One of the most powerful and destructive forces in the entire galaxy, the Borg invaded the Federation two times in less than a decade. They were unlike anything the Federation had ever encountered, and were only foiled by chance and resourcefulness. The Federation was forcefully humbled in the fact that, in the vast, unexplored reaches of the galaxy beyond what they knew, there were threats that they could not even imagine.
 +
 
  
 
[[Image:San Francisco attacked2.jpg|thumb|The [[Breen]] hit the heart of Star Fleet.]]
 
[[Image:San Francisco attacked2.jpg|thumb|The [[Breen]] hit the heart of Star Fleet.]]
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Then, in [[2370]], contact was made with the [[Dominion]], the predominant ruling power over much of the [[Gamma Quadrant]]. After numerous skirmishes, misfortunes suffered by the Cardassian Union allowed for their eventual incorporation into the Dominion, and the subsequent [[Dominion War|Dominion invasion]] of the Alpha Quadrant. The Dominion/Cardassian forces were also joined by the reclusive but immensely powerful race known as the [[Breen]]. The ensuing war was the greatest crisis to be faced by the Federation, with the Federation forming [[Federation Alliance|an alliance]] with the Klingons and Romulans to defeat the Dominion. Although the Alliance eventually emerged victorious, many of the Federation's important member worlds, such as [[Betazed]], [[Coridan]], and [[Benzar]], had been temporarily occupied before the Dominion's offensive could be turned back. Thousands of Federation Star Fleet vessels and millions of lives were lost, in what turned out be, as of the late 24th century, the bloodiest conflict in Federation history. The most devastating and demoralizing offensive occurred in [[2375]], when the Breen hit the Federation at its heart, with a surprise attack on [[Star Fleet Headquarters]] on Earth.
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Then, in [[2370]], contact was made with the [[Dominion]], the predominant ruling power over much of the [[Gamma Quadrant]]. After numerous skirmishes, misfortunes suffered by the [[Cardassian Union]] allowed for their eventual incorporation into the Dominion, and the subsequent [[Dominion War|Dominion invasion]] of the [[Alpha Quadrant]]. The [[Dominion]]/[[Cardassian]] forces were also joined by the reclusive but immensely powerful race known as the [[Breen]]. The ensuing war was the greatest crisis to be faced by the Federation, with the Federation forming [[Federation Alliance|an alliance with the Klingons and Romulans]] to defeat the Dominion. Although the Alliance eventually emerged victorious, many of the Federation's important member worlds, such as [[Betazed]], [[Coridan]], and [[Benzar]], had been temporarily occupied before the Dominion's offensive could be turned back. Thousands of Federation Star Fleet vessels and millions of lives were lost, in what turned out be, as of the late [[24th century]], the bloodiest conflict in Federation history. The most devastating and demoralizing offensive occurred in [[2375]], when the Breen hit the Federation at its heart, with a surprise attack on [[Star Fleet Headquarters]] on Earth.
  
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:''In at least one version of the [[26th century]], the Klingon Empire and races such as the [[Ithenite]]s, and Xindi, joined the Federation. In the 2550s of this timeline, the Federation proved instrumental in halting an invasion of the galaxy by a power known as the [[Sphere Builder]]s. This action caused the Sphere Builders to try to stop the Federation from ever being formed by manipulating the Xindi into attempting to destroy Earth in 2153. By the timeline's [[31st century]], the Federation had become embroiled in the [[Temporal Cold War]], attempting to maintain the integrity and outcome of its subjective history.''
 
  
 
==Size and location==
 
==Size and location==
 
[[Image:Paris2372.jpg|thumb|Office of the President of the United Federation of Planets]]
 
[[Image:Paris2372.jpg|thumb|Office of the President of the United Federation of Planets]]
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:''See also: [[Federation members]] and [[Federation colonies]]''
+
The Federation is located in the [[Alpha Quadrant]] of the [[Milky Way Galaxy]]. By the early [[2370]]s, the Federation's territory was spread across 8,000 [[light year]]s, with a membership of over 150 worlds and over 1,000 semi-autonomous [[colony|colonies]]. Its major neighboring sovereignties were the [[Klingon Empire]], the [[Romulan Star Empire]], the [[Cardassian Union]], and the [[Ferengi Alliance]]. Other neighboring sovereignties were the [[Tzenkethi]], the [[Tholian Assembly]], the [[Breen Confederacy]] and the [[Xindi]].
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The Federation was located in the [[Alpha Quadrant]] of the [[Milky Way Galaxy]]. By the early [[2370]]s, the Federation's territory was spread across 8,000 [[light year]]s, with a membership of over 150 worlds and over 1,000 semi-autonomous [[colony|colonies]]. Its major neighboring sovereignties were the [[Klingon Empire]], the [[Romulan Star Empire]], the [[Cardassian Union]], and the [[Ferengi Alliance]]. Other neighboring sovereignties were the [[Tzenkethi]], the [[Tholian Assembly]], the [[Breen Confederacy]] and the [[Xindi]].
+
 
  
 
==Government==
 
==Government==
−
The Federation's government was a representative republic, headquartered on [[Earth]].
+
The Federation's government is a representative republic, headquartered on [[Earth]].
  
 
:''The exact nature of the government of the Federation has never been made clear on screen. From the information available, the United Federation of Planets would appear to be a constitutional representative republic, similar to that of the United States, prior to the 1860s.''
 
:''The exact nature of the government of the Federation has never been made clear on screen. From the information available, the United Federation of Planets would appear to be a constitutional representative republic, similar to that of the United States, prior to the 1860s.''
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:''However, Federation law did grant the government emergency authority to override local governance and declare martial law on a member's territory.''
 
:''However, Federation law did grant the government emergency authority to override local governance and declare martial law on a member's territory.''
  
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===The Executive===
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 +
=== Executive Branch===
 
[[Image:Logo Kris presUFP.gif|thumb|Seal of the President of the United Federation of Planets]]  
 
[[Image:Logo Kris presUFP.gif|thumb|Seal of the President of the United Federation of Planets]]  
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The executive branch was responsible for the day-to-day management of the Federation. The [[Democracy|democratically-elected]] [[Federation President]] was the head of this branch. The Federation President served as both the head of state and head of government; as chief executive officer of the government, the President determined most of the Federation's foreign policy, managed budgetary concerns, and served as supreme commander of the Federation's military forces. The President's office was located in the Earth city of [[Paris]] on the European continent.
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The executive branch is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Federation. The democratically-elected [[Federation President]] is the head of this branch. The President serves as both the head of state, and head of government. As chief executive officer of the government, the President determines most of the Federation's foreign policy, oversees budgetary concerns, and serves as commander of the Federation's military forces. The President's office is located in the Earth city of [[Paris]], on the [[Europe]]an continent.
 +
 
 +
* The "''Federation Cabinet''" is a special executive committee to the President of the United Federation of Planets.
  
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The [[Federation Cabinet]] was a special executive committee to the President of the United Federation of Planets.
 
  
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====Executive agencies====
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====Executive Agencies====
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The Federation also maintained a number of executive agencies that assisted in the administration of its affairs:
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The Federation also maintains a number of executive agencies that assist in the administration of its affairs:
  
−
* [[Federation Archaeology Council|Archaeological Council]]
 
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* [[Federation Astronomical Committee|Astronomical Committee]]
 
−
* [[Federation Bureau of Agricultural Affairs|Bureau of Agricultural Affairs]]
 
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* [[Federation Bureau of Industrialization|Bureau of Industrialization]]
 
 
* [[Federation Bureau of Planetary Treaties|Bureau of Planetary Treaties]]
 
* [[Federation Bureau of Planetary Treaties|Bureau of Planetary Treaties]]
−
* [[Central Bureau of Penology]]
 
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* [[Department of Cartography]]
 
 
* [[Department of Temporal Investigations]]
 
* [[Department of Temporal Investigations]]
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* [[Earth Broadcasting Company]]
 
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* [[Federation Naval Patrol]]
 
 
* [[Federation News Network]]
 
* [[Federation News Network]]
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* [[Federation News Service]]
 
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* [[Federation Science Council]]
 
−
* [[Federation Science Bureau]]
 
 
* [[Star Fleet]] - see below.
 
* [[Star Fleet]] - see below.
−
* [[Terraform Command]]
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* [[United Earth Space Probe Agency|United Earth Space Probe Agency (UESPA)]]  
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* [[United Earth Space Probe Agency|United Earth Space Probe Agency (UESPA)]] (Existed from the [[21st century|21st]] and at least into the [[23rd century]])
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** Existed from the [[21st century|21st]] and at least into the [[23rd century]]
 +
 
  
 
In addition, at least one rogue agency, known as [[Section 31]], was known to have operated in the name of the Federation.
 
In addition, at least one rogue agency, known as [[Section 31]], was known to have operated in the name of the Federation.
  
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===The Legislature===
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 +
=== Legislative Branch ===
 
[[Image:FederationCouncil2286.jpg|thumb|A sitting of the Federation Council]]
 
[[Image:FederationCouncil2286.jpg|thumb|A sitting of the Federation Council]]
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The [[Federation Council]] was the unicameral legislative body of the Federation. Composed of representatives from the various [[Federation members|member worlds]], the Federation Council held the power to create, amend, and ratify Federation law. The Federation Council also held a great deal of influence over the operations of the Federation's military service, [[Star Fleet]]. It sometimes served as the judging body of specially-convened [[court martial|courts-martial]], and on occasion issued operational orders to Star Fleet. The Council also held influence over the making of Federation foreign policy. The Council's meeting chamber was in the Earth city of [[San Francisco]], on the west coast of the North American continent.
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The [[Federation Council]] is the legislative body of the Federation. Composed of representatives from the various member worlds, the Federation Council has the power to create, amend, and ratify Federation law. The Federation Council also has great influence over the operations of the Federation's military service, [[Star Fleet]]. It sometimes serves as the judging body of specially-convened [[court martial|court-martials]], and on occasion, issues operational orders to Star Fleet. The Council also holds influence over the making of Federation foreign policy. The Council's meeting chamber is in the Earth city of [[San Francisco]], on the west coast of the [[North America]]n continent.
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===The Judiciary===
 
===The Judiciary===
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The judiciary was the branch of the Federation's government which was responsible for the administration of justice in the name of the state according to Federation law. Its highest level was the [[Federation Supreme Court]].
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The judiciary was the branch of the Federation's government which was responsible for the administration of justice in the name of the state according to Federation law.  
 +
* Its highest level is the '''''Federation Supreme Court'''''.
  
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===Federation law===
 
−
[[Image:Federation Charter.jpg|thumb|The Federation Charter, as seen aboard the {{USS|Voyager}} in [[2377]]]]
 
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:''Main article: [[Federation law]]''
 
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The fundamental political principles and laws of the Federation derived from two important documents:
 
  
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* The [[Federation Charter]] was the document ratified by the original members of the United Federation of Planets at the organization's founding in [[2161]]. Caste-based discrimination was prohibited under the Charter.
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===Federation Law===
 +
The fundamental political principles and laws of the Federation are derived from two important documents:
  
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* The [[Federation Constitution]] incorporated a series of enumerated rights to which all sentient beings were regarded as being entitled, collectively referred to as the Guarantees. The [[Seventh Guarantee]] of the Federation Constitution protected individuals from self-incrimination, while the [[Twelfth Guarantee]] protected the rights of artists.
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* The '''Federation Charter''' was the document ratified by the original members of the United Federation of Planets at the organization's founding in [[2161]]. <br>Caste-based discrimination was prohibited under the '''''Charter'''''.
 +
 
 +
* The '''Federation Constitution''' incorporates a series of enumerated rights, to which all sentient beings are regarded as being entitled, collectively referred to as the Guarantees. <br>Examples: The ''Seventh Guarantee'' of the Federation Constitution protects individuals from self-incrimination, while the ''Twelfth Guarantee'' protected the rights of artists.
 +
 
 +
:''Note: This is not to be confused with the [[Federation Space Constitution]], which is the document that determines how the game is to be played''
  
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:''Note: This is not to be confused with the Federation Space Constitution which is document that determines how the game is to be played''
 
  
 
Other rights and responsibilities for citizens derived from:
 
Other rights and responsibilities for citizens derived from:
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* The [[Federation Judicial Code]], which provided guidelines and regulations related to legal issues in the Federation.
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* The '''Federation Judicial Code''', which provides guidelines and regulations related to legal issues in the Federation.
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* [[Star Fleet General Orders and Regulations]], a series of guidelines used to instruct members of Star Fleet on the proper etiquette and policy in a situation that requires consultation for a resolution.
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* '''Star Fleet General Orders and Regulations''', a series of guidelines used to instruct members of Star Fleet on the proper etiquette and policy in a situation that requires consultation for a resolution.
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* The [[Federation Uniform Code of Justice]], which formed the legal basis of [[Star Fleet]] [[court martial]] proceedings.
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* The [[Federation Uniform Code of Justice]], which forms the legal basis of [[Star Fleet]] [[court martial]] proceedings.
 +
 
  
 
==Military==
 
==Military==
 
[[Image:Star Fleet command emblem.png|thumb|Star Fleet emblem (24th century)]]
 
[[Image:Star Fleet command emblem.png|thumb|Star Fleet emblem (24th century)]]
 
:''Main article: [[Star Fleet]]''
 
:''Main article: [[Star Fleet]]''
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Star Fleet was the military and deep-space exploratory service maintained by the United Federation of Planets. Its principal functions were the advancement of Federation knowledge about the galaxy, the advancement of Federation knowledge of science and technology, and the military defense of the Federation. In addition, it also played a significant diplomatic role. As per its mandate of deep-space exploration, its personnel were frequently brought into contact with cultures and sentient species whose existences were previously unknown to the Federation. Federation Star Fleet officers therefore acted as official representatives of the Federation in these cases. Also, Federation Star Fleet vessels were frequently used to ferry ambassadors on diplomatic missions.
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''[[Star Fleet]]'' is the military and deep-space exploratory service maintained by the United Federation of Planets. Its principal functions include: the advancement of Federation knowledge about the galaxy; the advancement of Federation knowledge of science and technology; and the military defense of the Federation. In addition, it also plays a significant diplomatic role. As per its mandate of deep-space exploration, its personnel are frequently brought into contact with cultures and sentient species whose existences were previously unknown to the Federation. Federation Star Fleet officers therefore act as official representatives of the Federation. Federation Star Fleet vessels are frequently used to ferry [[ambassador]]s on diplomatic missions.
 +
 
  
 
==Economy==
 
==Economy==
−
The basic unit of currency backed by the Federation was called the [[Federation credit]]. This currency was used in both internal and external transactions. Federation worlds who possessed resources unavailable elsewhere were obligated to provide consignments of these resources in times of emergency.
+
The basic unit of currency backed by the Federation is called the '''Federation credit'''. This currency is used in both internal and external transactions. Federation worlds who possess resources unavailable elsewhere were obligated to provide consignments of these resources in times of emergency.
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Individual Federation worlds were free to employ their own economic models. [[Bolarus IX|Bolias]], for example, utilized currency based economics (the [[Bank of Bolias]] was a major interstellar financial institution). By the [[24th century]], economic practices on [[Earth]] were able to exclude the need for an established currency.
 
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==Membership==
 
−
Admittance into the Federation was either by invitation or successful petition of a world or civilization desirous of joining. In the second case, membership was granted only upon satisfaction of certain requirements. Firstly, the government of the prospective member submitted an official petition to the Federation Council, outlining its desire to join. A lengthy, thorough investigation of the prospective member's culture followed. This investigation could take several years, and was done to ascertain whether or not the culture genuinely shared the values of the Federation: values of benevolence, peaceful co-existence and co-operation, the [[rule of law]], and equal rights and justice. For example, the discovery on the petitioning planet, [[Angosia III]], of enhanced soldiers being unjustly indefinitely imprisoned without treatment in times of peace was considered unacceptable in Captain [[Jean-Luc Picard]]'s official evaluation of the planet for the Federation.
 
  
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Even before the investigation, the prospective member had to meet certain requirements. These were as follows:
 
−
* It had to have an "advanced level of technology." The Federation's baseline definition of this term was the capability for [[faster-than-light]] space travel.
 
−
* Its government had to have achieved stable planetary political unity, respecting the rights of the individual.
 
−
* No form of caste discrimination was to be practiced.
 
  
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:'''See also:''' [[Federation members|List of Federation members]]
+
Individual Federation worlds are free to employ their own economic models. For example, the [[planet]] of [[Bolarus IX]] utilizes currency-based economics. Conversely, by the [[24th century]], economic practices on [[Earth]] were able to exclude the need for an established currency.
  
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== Reputation ==
 
−
Due to its size and history, the United Federation of Planets consequently gained a reputation throughout the hierarchies of neighboring species and goverments.
 
  
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[[Klingon]] propaganda in the [[23rd century]] claimed that the Federation committed atrocities against its prisoners, keeping them in death camps and torturing them for their scientific and military secrets. When beamed aboard the {{USS|Enterprise|NCC|1701}} in [[2268]], [[Mara]] reminded her husband [[Kang]] of these claims. [[Captain]] [[James T. Kirk]] remarked that she had much to learn about the Federation.
+
==Membership==
 +
Admittance into the Federation is either by invitation, or successful petition of a world or civilization desirous of joining. In the second case, membership is granted only upon satisfaction of certain requirements. Firstly, the government of the prospective member is required to submit an official petition to the Federation Council, outlining its desire to join. A lengthy, thorough investigation of the prospective member's culture then follows. This investigation can take several years, and is done to ascertain whether or not the culture genuinely shares the values of the Federation: values of benevolence, peaceful co-existence and co-operation, the rule of law, and equal rights and justice.  
  
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In [[2269]], the ''Enterprise'' apprehended [[Lokai]], a [[Cheron native|native]] of the [[planet]] [[Cheron]], who was responsible for the theft of a [[Federation shuttlecraft]] from [[Starbase 4]]. Following his apprehension, and, upon his initial interrogation by Captain Kirk, Lokai stated that he had heard about the [[starship]] and that the '''United Fleet of Planets''' to which it belonged.  Kirk quickly corrected Lokai, stating the correct name of the Federation.
 
  
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During the preparation for the [[First Battle of Deep Space 9]], in [[2372]], [[Quark]] expressed to [[Garak]] the direness being stuck on [[Deep Space 9|the station]], stating that "''the worst part is, my only hope for salvation is the Federation.''" Quark went on to introduce Garak to the Earth concoction of [[root beer]], which Quark went on to describe as being "''bubbly and cloying and happy. Just like the Federation,''" adding, "''but you know what's really frightening? If you drink enough of it, you start to like it.''" Garak, who disliked the taste of the "vile" {{MA|Beverage|beverage}}, added too, that it was "insidious", to which Quark added, "''just like the Federation.''" Garak finally take a moment to embrace the Federation, inquiring to Quark in he thought they would "''be able to save us?''" The defeated Quark responded, "''I hope so.''"
+
Even before the investigation, the prospective member has to meet certain requirements. These were as follows:
−
 
+
* An "advanced level of technology" : The Federation's baseline definition of this term was the capability for [[warp|faster-than-light]] space travel.
−
Prior to the breakdown of relations between the Federation and Klingon Empire, which eventually led to the [[Federation-Klingon War (2372-73)|Klingon-Federation War]], [[Kurn]] opposed the decision to break the treaty but was overruled in [[Klingon Council]]. He later stated to [[Worf]], that the reason for his opposition was "''because [https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Gowron Gowron] underestimates the Federation. He thinks they're soft, weak, but he is wrong. Sooner or later, there will be war.''"
+
* Government has to have achieved stable planetary political unity, respecting the rights of the individual.
−
 
+
* No form of caste discrimination was to be practiced.
−
When [[Michael Eddington]], the self-proclaimed leader of [[Maquis]], commented to [[Benjamin Sisko]] on why the Federation was "so obsessed about the Maquis," Eddington surmised that it was "''because we've left the Federation, and that's the one thing you can't accept. Nobody leaves paradise. Everyone should want to be in the Federation,''" adding, "''Hell, you even want the Cardassians to join. You're only sending them [[CFI replicator|replicators]] so that one day they can take their "rightful place" on the Federation Council.''" Eddington finally drove his point home, stating, "''you know, in some ways you're worse than the Borg. At least they tell you about their plans for [[assimilate|assimilation]]. You're more insidious, you assimilate people and they don't even know it.''"
 
  
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The [[Dominion]]'s view of the Federation was less than commendatory. Following the [[Battle of the Omarion Nebula]], which eliminated the threat of the [[Obsidian Order]] and [[Tal Shiar]], the [[Changeling]] posing as [[Colonel]] [[Lovok (Changeling)|Lovok]] stated that "''after today the only real threats to us from the Alpha Quadrant are the Klingons and the Federation. And I doubt either of them will be a threat for much longer.''" As the [[Federation-Dominion Cold War]] pressed on, [[Benjamin Sisko]] was told by [[Weyoun]] that "''the Dominion has endured for over 2000 years, and will continue to endure, until long after the Federation has crumbled into dust.''"
 
  
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Following Cardassia's joining of the Dominion, [https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Dukat Gul Dukat] offered Benjamin Sisko an opportunity to "save [his] precious Federation,''" by convincing them to "''follow Cardassia's example''" and join the Dominion as well, adding, "''joining the Dominion will save billions of lives and keep the Federation from fading into the mists of history.''"
 
  
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Later, during the Dominion War, it was Weyoun's belief that for the Dominion to absorb the Federation, following their theoretical defeat, that "''holding on to a prize as vast as the Federation isn't going to be easy. It's going to require an enormous number of ships, a massive occupation army and constant vigilance.''" Ultimately, Weyoun personally believed that "''the key to holding the Federation is Earth. If there's going to be an organized resistance against us, its birthplace will be there.''"
 
  
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In [[2375]], [[Ru'afo]], a [[Son'a]] who was working in conjunction with Star Fleet [[Vice Admiral]] [[Matthew Dougherty]], expressed his views of the Federation, describing it as "old," adding "''in the last twenty four months, it's been challenged by every major power in the [[quadrant]] – the [[Borg]], the [[Cardassian]]s, the [[Dominion]]. They all smell the scent of death on the Federation.''" Ru'afo suggested to Dougherty that it was for that very reason why the Federation Council "''embraced [the Son'a's] offer, because it will give your dear Federation new life.''"
 
  
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== Related topics ==
 
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*[[Federation colonies]]
 
 
{{AOTW|20908.30}}
 
{{AOTW|20908.30}}
  

Revision as of 20:39, 16 November 2021

INTERSTELLAR STATE
United Federation of Planets
United Federation of Planets logo.png
Founded:
 2161 (United Earth, Vulcan, Andorian Empire, Tellar)
Location:
 [[Alpha Quadrant, Beta Quadrant]]
Affiliation:
 United Federation of Planets
Capital:
 Earth
Head of State:
 President of the United Federation of Planets
Head of Government:
 President of the United Federation of Planets
Legislature:
 Federation Council
Judiciary:
 Federation Supreme Court
Major Species:
 All Federation members
Military:
 Federation Star Fleet
Intelligence Service:
 Federation Star Fleet Intelligence
Currency:
 Federation credit
United Federation of Planets flag.svg.png


"A dream that became a reality and spread throughout the stars."
- Captain James T. Kirk


The United Federation of Planets (abbreviated as UFP and commonly referred to as The Federation) is an interstellar federal republic. It is composed of planetary governments that agreed to exist semi-autonomously, under a single central government, based on the principles of universal liberty, rights, and equality. They have also agreed to share their knowledge and resources in peaceful cooperation and space exploration. The Federation Star Fleet was incorporated into this government in order to serve the peace-keeping and humanitarian armada of the Federation, in addition to exploratory, scientific, and diplomatic functions.

History

The founding ceremony of the Federation in 2161
Four of the five founding species of the Federation (clockwise from top left): Humans, Vulcans, Andorians, and Tellarites.
Alpha Centauran, one of the five founding species of the Federation.

The Federation was founded in San Francisco, Earth in 2161. The seeds of the Federation were planted during a temporary alliance in 2154, in the cooperative search for a Romulan drone ship. This search brought these species together for the first time, and they would late become the founder of the Federation: Humans, Vulcans, Andorians, Tellarites, and Alpha Centaurans. After the crisis, these four species remained together, founding the precursor to the Federation, called the Coalition of Planets. Other species soon joined: the Denobulans, the Rigelians, and several others. Over the next several years, ties between the members of the Coalition strengthened, becoming more structured, and in 2161, the Coalition became the Federation.


Although the Federation's intentions were peaceful, it was surrounded by belligerent powers such as the Klingon and Romulan Empires. As the Federation expanded through the admittance of more and more worlds, it came into conflict with these two powers. In the 23rd century, the Federation's main adversary was the Klingon Empire, with war briefly erupting between the two in 2267, before being halted by the Organians. However, tensions eased considerably towards the end of the century, with the Khitomer Conference of 2293 being a substantial turning point. This conference saw the signing of to the Khitomer Accords, which effectively ended hostile relations between the Klingons and the Federation.


At the start of the 24th century, the Federation began an unprecedented period of peaceful exploration of the galaxy, free of major conflicts. However, relations with the Romulans remained hostile, albeit at a low, 'cold war' level. There were also a series of local conflicts in the late 2340s, as the Federation came into contact with other militant races such as the Cardassians, the Talarians, the Tholians and the Tzenkethi.


Star Fleet forces engaging the Borg.

In 2365, the period of peaceful exploration came to an abrupt end. The Federation encountered its single worst threat: the cybernetic pseudo-race known as the Borg. One of the most powerful and destructive forces in the entire galaxy, the Borg invaded the Federation two times in less than a decade. They were unlike anything the Federation had ever encountered, and were only foiled by chance and resourcefulness. The Federation was forcefully humbled in the fact that, in the vast, unexplored reaches of the galaxy beyond what they knew, there were threats that they could not even imagine.


The Breen hit the heart of Star Fleet.

Then, in 2370, contact was made with the Dominion, the predominant ruling power over much of the Gamma Quadrant. After numerous skirmishes, misfortunes suffered by the Cardassian Union allowed for their eventual incorporation into the Dominion, and the subsequent Dominion invasion of the Alpha Quadrant. The Dominion/Cardassian forces were also joined by the reclusive but immensely powerful race known as the Breen. The ensuing war was the greatest crisis to be faced by the Federation, with the Federation forming an alliance with the Klingons and Romulans to defeat the Dominion. Although the Alliance eventually emerged victorious, many of the Federation's important member worlds, such as Betazed, Coridan, and Benzar, had been temporarily occupied before the Dominion's offensive could be turned back. Thousands of Federation Star Fleet vessels and millions of lives were lost, in what turned out be, as of the late 24th century, the bloodiest conflict in Federation history. The most devastating and demoralizing offensive occurred in 2375, when the Breen hit the Federation at its heart, with a surprise attack on Star Fleet Headquarters on Earth.


Size and location

Office of the President of the United Federation of Planets

The Federation is located in the Alpha Quadrant of the Milky Way Galaxy. By the early 2370s, the Federation's territory was spread across 8,000 light years, with a membership of over 150 worlds and over 1,000 semi-autonomous colonies. Its major neighboring sovereignties were the Klingon Empire, the Romulan Star Empire, the Cardassian Union, and the Ferengi Alliance. Other neighboring sovereignties were the Tzenkethi, the Tholian Assembly, the Breen Confederacy and the Xindi.


Government

The Federation's government is a representative republic, headquartered on Earth.

The exact nature of the government of the Federation has never been made clear on screen. From the information available, the United Federation of Planets would appear to be a constitutional representative republic, similar to that of the United States, prior to the 1860s.
The exact division of powers between the Federation government and the governments of its member worlds is unknown, though various episodes indicate the Federation placed great value on maintaining local sovereignty over local affairs. Member worlds were left to manage their own governance in accordance with their own traditions and local laws, so long as the general requirements of membership were met.
However, Federation law did grant the government emergency authority to override local governance and declare martial law on a member's territory.


Executive Branch

Seal of the President of the United Federation of Planets

The executive branch is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Federation. The democratically-elected Federation President is the head of this branch. The President serves as both the head of state, and head of government. As chief executive officer of the government, the President determines most of the Federation's foreign policy, oversees budgetary concerns, and serves as commander of the Federation's military forces. The President's office is located in the Earth city of Paris, on the European continent.

  • The "Federation Cabinet" is a special executive committee to the President of the United Federation of Planets.


Executive Agencies

The Federation also maintains a number of executive agencies that assist in the administration of its affairs:


In addition, at least one rogue agency, known as Section 31, was known to have operated in the name of the Federation.


Legislative Branch

A sitting of the Federation Council

The Federation Council is the legislative body of the Federation. Composed of representatives from the various member worlds, the Federation Council has the power to create, amend, and ratify Federation law. The Federation Council also has great influence over the operations of the Federation's military service, Star Fleet. It sometimes serves as the judging body of specially-convened court-martials, and on occasion, issues operational orders to Star Fleet. The Council also holds influence over the making of Federation foreign policy. The Council's meeting chamber is in the Earth city of San Francisco, on the west coast of the North American continent.


The Judiciary

The judiciary was the branch of the Federation's government which was responsible for the administration of justice in the name of the state according to Federation law.

  • Its highest level is the Federation Supreme Court.


Federation Law

The fundamental political principles and laws of the Federation are derived from two important documents:

  • The Federation Charter was the document ratified by the original members of the United Federation of Planets at the organization's founding in 2161.
    Caste-based discrimination was prohibited under the Charter.
  • The Federation Constitution incorporates a series of enumerated rights, to which all sentient beings are regarded as being entitled, collectively referred to as the Guarantees.
    Examples: The Seventh Guarantee of the Federation Constitution protects individuals from self-incrimination, while the Twelfth Guarantee protected the rights of artists.
Note: This is not to be confused with the Federation Space Constitution, which is the document that determines how the game is to be played


Other rights and responsibilities for citizens derived from:

  • The Federation Judicial Code, which provides guidelines and regulations related to legal issues in the Federation.
  • Star Fleet General Orders and Regulations, a series of guidelines used to instruct members of Star Fleet on the proper etiquette and policy in a situation that requires consultation for a resolution.
  • The Federation Uniform Code of Justice, which forms the legal basis of Star Fleet court martial proceedings.


Military

Star Fleet emblem (24th century)
Main article: Star Fleet

Star Fleet is the military and deep-space exploratory service maintained by the United Federation of Planets. Its principal functions include: the advancement of Federation knowledge about the galaxy; the advancement of Federation knowledge of science and technology; and the military defense of the Federation. In addition, it also plays a significant diplomatic role. As per its mandate of deep-space exploration, its personnel are frequently brought into contact with cultures and sentient species whose existences were previously unknown to the Federation. Federation Star Fleet officers therefore act as official representatives of the Federation. Federation Star Fleet vessels are frequently used to ferry ambassadors on diplomatic missions.


Economy

The basic unit of currency backed by the Federation is called the Federation credit. This currency is used in both internal and external transactions. Federation worlds who possess resources unavailable elsewhere were obligated to provide consignments of these resources in times of emergency.


Individual Federation worlds are free to employ their own economic models. For example, the planet of Bolarus IX utilizes currency-based economics. Conversely, by the 24th century, economic practices on Earth were able to exclude the need for an established currency.


Membership

Admittance into the Federation is either by invitation, or successful petition of a world or civilization desirous of joining. In the second case, membership is granted only upon satisfaction of certain requirements. Firstly, the government of the prospective member is required to submit an official petition to the Federation Council, outlining its desire to join. A lengthy, thorough investigation of the prospective member's culture then follows. This investigation can take several years, and is done to ascertain whether or not the culture genuinely shares the values of the Federation: values of benevolence, peaceful co-existence and co-operation, the rule of law, and equal rights and justice.


Even before the investigation, the prospective member has to meet certain requirements. These were as follows:

  • An "advanced level of technology" : The Federation's baseline definition of this term was the capability for faster-than-light space travel.
  • Government has to have achieved stable planetary political unity, respecting the rights of the individual.
  • No form of caste discrimination was to be practiced.



This article has been listed as the Article of the Week for the week beginning 20908.30

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