One source of the caution that some Cheruskians feel towards other micronations is the Kingdom's historical neutrality. Strong measures aimed at maintaining neutrality were placed in the Cheruskian Constitution "to keep us from getting ourselves into stupid messes" noted the King, author of the Constitution. The aforementioned provision establishes a policy of neutrality; only the unanimous approval of the Assembly can grant an exception to this provision.

However, the exact extent of this neutrality is in question. While most in Cherusken are in favor of the neutrality clause, most also feel that it does not prohibit the nation from engaging in normal diplomatic relations with other micronations, nor that it prevents Cherusken from participating in intermicronational organizations, such as the League of Secessionist States. A small but vocal minority, led by Councilor John Rowles, understands the neutraliy provision very differently. They feel that it prevents formal relationships with other micronations, as well as membership in intermicronatinal organizations, unless expressly approved by the Assembly, by unanimous vote.

In this vein, Councilor Rowles has been the source of a great deal of legislation which seeks to limit Cherusken's intermicronational engagement. He advocates a Penguinea-style policy towards other micronations, summarized by the phrase, "if you exist, you exist." All such legislation has been defeated to date, although he has vowed to continue his crusade.

Although Rowles' legislation did not pass in the Assembly, his arguments can often garner widespread support. The Cheruskian public was rather sympathetic when he used the Cyberia-C.O.S. conflict as an example of micronationalism at its worst. Other instances of micronational misconduct, such as when Cheruskians recieved annoying e-mails (promising the conquest of Cherusken and other nonsense) led to legislation, sponsored by Rowles and others, that created the Cheruskian Post Office, which serves as a buffer between Cheruskians and the rest of the micronational world.

Recently, Rowles has moderated his stance somewhat, in light of the lack of support for more radical alternatives. Also, he has noted that LOSS has surpassed his admittedly low expectations for it, and that the organization, "may be worthwhile after all." It should also be noted that Rowles and the Foreign Ministry have made a peace of sorts, by which the Ministry has moderated its policies somewhat. Under the "gentleman's agreement" reached, the Foreign Ministry will not actively seek relations with other nations, unless explicitly directed to do so by a majority of the Assembly. Requests for mutual recognition by other nations are not subject to this requirement. Furthermore, the Foreign Ministry will consult informally with members of the Assembly before making large decisions, except in emergency situations. It was such consultations that led to Cherusken's abstention on a recent LOSS vote on the admission of Morovia to the League. Many Councilors felt that Cherusken simply could not support a nation whose Foreign Minister behaved in such a manner.

Despite this apparent settling of the issue of isolation, there are still some matters that remain undecided. The role of the Cheruskian Commonwealth is but one example. What path Cherusken will take in its dealings with other micronations in the future is still up in the air, and will likely remain so for some time.

by John Rowles, Brent Schultze, and Karen Z.