The Interstellar Trade Commission (ITC)
The Interstellar Trade Commission (ITC) stands as the central governing body overseeing and regulating interstellar space in the vast expanse of colonized planets. All traders must be licensed by the ITC in order to conduct commerce. ITC agents also operate the customs stations of all spaceports.
But with the passing years and growing number of colonized planets, the ITC's responsibility also extended beyond trade regulation and now encompass a diverse array of duties related to interplanetary space. This includes engaging in rescue operations, undertaking exploratory endeavors, commissioning colony ships, conducting routine space patrols, executing anti-piracy and anti-smuggling operations, regulating and inspecting star bases, implementing blockades on restricted worlds, enforcing interstellar peace, collecting tariffs, and even undertaking routine policing duties in smaller colonies or space stations lacking their own defense forces.
The planets, moons and habitats within the ITC exhibit a wide range of governance structures: Autocracies, Monarchies, Democracies, Theocracies, Communal Societies, etc. These governments handle internal affairs, establish and enforce local laws, and manage the planetary defense forces and resources. The ITC respects the sovereignty of each planetary body in these matters. They can also establish their own industries, set local taxes and negotiate trade agreements, provided they adhere to the ITC's overarching regulations.
Here's an overview of the internal structure of the ITC:
1. Executive Council
The Executive Council consists of high-ranking officials, representatives and experts from mega-corporations and powerful planetary governments. This council elects and advises a Chairperson, responsible for overall coordination and decision-making at ITC. The Chairperson is supported by a board of directors, each overseeing a specific division.
2. Interstellar Security Division
This division acts as the vigilant guardian of interstellar space. Under the command of an Admiral, this division comprises the Space Navy, entrusted with the vital tasks of enforcing ITC regulations and ensuring the protection of merchant vessels. The Space Navy operates through strategically organized fleets, each assigned to oversee and protect a specific sector of space. In tandem with these efforts, the Space Marines, led by an experienced General, engage in boarding operations on spacecraft, quell rebellions, secure ITC installations, and provide critical support to the Colonial Affairs Division by safeguarding ITC officials and assets during their missions.
3. Merchant Regulations Division
This division, led by a Director of Trade, oversees the economic aspects of interstellar trade. It establishes and enforces trade policies, taxes, duties, and tariffs, with the proceeds used to fund the ITC. The division also includes experts in economics, law, and trade relations who collaborate with planetary representatives to maintain a fair and efficient interstellar economy.
4. Postal Authority Division
The Postal Authority, also led by a Director, manages the interstellar communication and delivery network. As faster-than-light communication is impossible, the ITC relies heavily on physical couriers. As such, this division is responsible for the swift and secure transportation of crucial documents, trade agreements, and time-sensitive communications between planets within the vast expanse of colonized space. While the Postal Authority operates its own fleet of spacecraft, it also awards contracts to private courier services for more "mundane" and slower communications. This collaborative approach allows for increased flexibility and coverage across the vast network of interstellar space.
5.The Explorers Division
The Explorers Division, led by the Explorer Council, embodies the spirit of discovery and individual freedom. Their mission is to chart the unexplored reaches of the cosmos, identifying potential colony locations and maintaining exhaustive reports on known worlds. Their work not only shapes the frontier but also fuels the expansion and sustainability of the ITC's influence.
6. Colonial Affairs Division
Led by a Director of Colonial Affairs, this division is responsible for overseeing the establishment and development of new colonies, appointing all administrators and governors until they are self-sustaining. It also collaborates with planetary governments, provides resources and humanitarian aid, and resolve disputes among planets and entities within the ITC sphere of influence.
7. Research Division
Led by a Chief Technologist. this division focuses on advancing space technology, specializing in interstellar trade and military applications. It collaborates with research institutions, private companies, and planetary governments to ensure that the ITC stays at the forefront of technological innovation.