The Grand Alliance had a curious genesis: initially an alliance between Choconia and Baja Arizona against Reunion, its focus quickly changed. By the time Cherusken joined, it had assumed loftier principles, and even opened itself to the possibility of Reunian membership. By then, it had been transormed into what many hoped would become a forum for micronations, and a way for them to interact peacefully, to find solutions to common problems.

Unfortunately, the devil was in the details, and the GA's grand vision withered and died. Simply put, members did not place extraordinary value on their membership; the GA was never seen as a primary source for intermicronational exposure. Almost no one brought it problems to be solved, and if they did, almost no one worked on finding solutions. The GA died from neglect and lonliness.

There is some hope for the League of Secessionist States. In the past, it has died and been resurrected, which alone testifies to its ability to inspire the imaginationns of micronationalists, or at least interest them. Since its entry requirements are stricter than the open door policy of the GA, the admission of new members will provide the League with something to do for a while to come. However, there are dangers looming beyond the horizon as well.

What will LOSS do when there are no more applicants? An organization such as LOSS does not simply exist to admit new members to itself. The fact that the eternally dueling Porto Claros could not bring themselved to allow the Leaue to mediate their dispute strains the League's credibility. Quite simply, the League is only as powerful as its members allow it to be. If the response to every difficulty is to leave, then the LOSS has a sorry road ahead of it.

However, there are good signs as well. The fact that nations do want to join is a reassuring sign, that nations see the inherent potential contained within the organization. Also, the fact that Valsgraphenstein did not leave the league when its dispute with Reunion became a subject of debate might be the first step towards reversing the "love it or leave it" mentality that dominated the Porto Claro issue. The fact that LOSS' intermicronational court has been convened is also a good sign. Finally, with a new charter, and possibly a new Secretary-General soon, the League may be on its way to good health. Secretary-General Kendall has done an excellent job of reviving the league, despite the time requirements of such a post. For that reason, his announced departure later this year is a sad thing, but seemingly unavoidable. Hopefully, his successor will take his work and build on it, creating a stronger League, which will become a force for progress in the micronational world.

by Brent Schultze and Karen Z.