Earth-Mars Relations and Autonomy Framework

LEGAL AUTHORITY HIERARCHY (Current Phase)

TIER 1: INTERNATIONAL SPACE LAW
├── Outer Space Treaty (1967)
│   ├── Space is province of all mankind
│   ├── No national appropriation of celestial bodies
│   ├── States responsible for national activities
│   ├── Astronauts as "envoys of mankind"
│   └── Peaceful purposes requirement
│
├── Moon Agreement (1979) [Limited adoption]
│   ├── Common heritage of mankind principle
│   ├── International regime for resource exploitation
│   └── Benefit sharing requirements
│
├── Liability Convention (1972)
│   ├── Launching state liability
│   └── Claims procedures
│
└── Registration Convention (1975)
    ├── Space object registration
    └── Jurisdiction assignment

TIER 2: MARS SETTLEMENT TREATY (2031) [Hypothetical]
├── International Mars Authority establishment
├── Settlement licensing framework
├── Resource rights allocation
├── Environmental protection standards
├── Human rights guarantees
└── Autonomy pathway recognition

TIER 3: COLONIAL CHARTER
├── Internal governance framework
├── Rights and obligations
├── Relationship to sponsoring entities
└── Amendment procedures

TIER 4: SPONSORING ENTITY LAW
├── Applicable national laws
├── Corporate governance requirements
├── Regulatory compliance
└── Contractual obligations

TIER 5: COLONIAL LEGISLATION
├── Assembly enactments
├── Council regulations
├── Guild standards
└── Tribunal decisions

MARS SETTLEMENT TREATY FRAMEWORK

PREAMBLE
├── Recognition of Mars settlement as humanity achievement
├── Commitment to peaceful development
├── Balance of Earth interests and colonist rights
├── Evolutionary approach to governance
└── Foundation for long-term coexistence

CHAPTER I: INTERNATIONAL MARS AUTHORITY (IMA)
├── Establishment and legal personality
├── Membership (signatory states)
├── Governance structure
├── Powers and limitations
├── Relationship to settlements
└── Funding mechanisms

CHAPTER II: SETTLEMENT AUTHORIZATION
├── Licensing requirements
├── Technical standards
├── Safety requirements
├── Environmental protocols
├── Reporting obligations
└── Revocation conditions

CHAPTER III: RESOURCE RIGHTS
├── Exploration rights
├── Extraction licensing
├── Property recognition
├── Benefit sharing mechanisms
├── Environmental limits
└── Conflict resolution

CHAPTER IV: JURISDICTION AND LAW
├── Settlement jurisdiction
├── Applicable law hierarchy
├── Criminal jurisdiction
├── Civil jurisdiction
├── Extradition framework
└── Mutual legal assistance

CHAPTER V: HUMAN RIGHTS
├── Fundamental rights guarantees
├── Colonist protections
├── Labor standards
├── IMA oversight authority
├── Complaint mechanisms
└── Enforcement procedures

CHAPTER VI: AUTONOMY FRAMEWORK
├── Recognition of self-determination right
├── Graduated autonomy pathway
├── Competency transfer criteria
├── Independence recognition process
├── Post-independence relations
└── Non-interference commitments

CHAPTER VII: DISPUTE RESOLUTION
├── Consultation requirements
├── Mediation procedures
├── Arbitration framework
├── Mars Tribunal jurisdiction
├── Enforcement mechanisms
└── Emergency procedures

CHAPTER VIII: FINAL PROVISIONS
├── Signature and ratification
├── Entry into force
├── Amendment procedures
├── Withdrawal provisions
├── Relationship to other treaties
└── Authentic texts

SPONSORING ENTITY FRAMEWORK

SPONSOR RIGHTS
├── Investment protection
│   ├── Asset security guarantees
│   ├── Contract enforcement
│   ├── Dispute resolution access
│   └── Reasonable return expectations
│
├── Oversight authority (diminishing over time)
│   ├── Safety standard verification
│   ├── Human rights monitoring
│   ├── Financial accountability
│   └── Environmental compliance
│
├── Citizen connection
│   ├── Consular-equivalent services
│   ├── Communication facilitation
│   ├── Return rights (if feasible)
│   └── Representation
│
└── Benefit sharing
    ├── Technology transfer
    ├── Research access
    ├── Commercial opportunities
    └── Prestige and recognition

SPONSOR OBLIGATIONS
├── Resource support
│   ├── Critical supply provision
│   ├── Technology transfer
│   ├── Personnel training
│   └── Emergency assistance
│
├── Legal framework
│   ├── Jurisdiction clarity
│   ├── Rights protection
│   ├── Treaty compliance
│   └── Autonomy pathway respect
│
├── Non-interference
│   ├── Internal governance respect
│   ├── No commercial exploitation
│   ├── Cultural autonomy
│   └── Development path respect
│
└── Good faith
    ├── Consultation before decisions
    ├── Transparent communication
    ├── Genuine partnership approach
    └── Long-term commitment

EARTH-MARS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

PRIMARY CHANNELS
├── Deep Space Network (DSN)
│   ├── Goldstone (California)
│   ├── Madrid (Spain)
│   ├── Canberra (Australia)
│   └── Capacity: ~2 Mbps typical, scalable
│
├── Mars Relay Satellites
│   ├── Orbital relay constellation
│   ├── Continuous Mars coverage
│   └── High-bandwidth surface links
│
└── Laser Communication (Optical)
    ├── Higher bandwidth potential
    ├── Weather dependent (Earth side)
    └── Future primary system

BACKUP CHANNELS
├── Reduced bandwidth DSN modes
├── Emergency beacon systems
├── Store-and-forward protocols
└── Solar conjunction preparations

DATA PRIORITIES (During limited bandwidth)
├── Priority 1: Life safety
├── Priority 2: Critical operations
├── Priority 3: Governance/legal
├── Priority 4: Personal (rotating access)
└── Priority 5: Non-essential

SOLAR CONJUNCTION PROTOCOL
├── Pre-conjunction briefings
├── Extended authority delegations
├── Emergency decision frameworks
├── Automated system preparations
├── Post-conjunction reconciliation
└── Duration: ~14 days full blackout, ~28 days degraded

DECISION AUTHORITY ALLOCATION

IMMEDIATE AUTHORITY (Colony decides, informs Earth)
├── Life safety emergencies
├── System failures requiring immediate response
├── Medical emergencies
├── Security threats
├── Resource allocation within approved parameters
├── Day-to-day operations
├── Internal dispute resolution
├── Personnel assignments
└── Schedule adjustments

DELEGATED AUTHORITY (Colony decides within guidelines)
├── Budget allocation within annual envelope
├── Policy implementation details
├── Regulatory enforcement
├── Minor infrastructure changes
├── Personnel discipline (non-severe)
├── Trade within parameters
├── Research prioritization
└── Cultural and social matters

CONSULTATION REQUIRED (Colony proposes, Earth input sought)
├── Major policy changes
├── Significant budget deviations
├── Infrastructure projects >threshold
├── External relations initiatives
├── Legal framework changes
├── Population policy changes
├── Safety standard modifications
└── Environmental policy changes

JOINT AUTHORITY (Agreement required)
├── Charter amendments
├── Treaty implementation
├── Major Earth-Mars agreements
├── New sponsor relationships
├── Significant autonomy transitions
├── Emergency Earth assistance requests
└── Fundamental rights issues

EARTH AUTHORITY (Earth decides, colony implements)
├── International treaty obligations [diminishing]
├── Sponsor legal requirements [diminishing]
├── IMA directives [diminishing]
├── Criminal extradition [with protections]
└── [Category shrinks over autonomy progression]

SOLAR CONJUNCTION GOVERNANCE PROTOCOL

PRE-CONJUNCTION (30 days before)
├── Review pending decisions
├── Accelerate time-sensitive matters
├── Issue extended delegations
├── Prepare contingency authorizations
├── Brief all leadership
└── Confirm emergency protocols

DURING CONJUNCTION
├── Colony operates under extended authority
├── Emergency Council may act on any urgent matter
├── No non-essential external commitments
├── Enhanced internal documentation
├── Conservative risk posture
└── Emergency beacon only communication

POST-CONJUNCTION (7 days after)
├── Communication restoration verification
├── Comprehensive situation report
├── Decision ratification process
├── Exception review
├── Documentation transmission
└── Normal operations resume

AUTHORITY EXPANSION DURING CONJUNCTION
├── Commander: Full emergency authority
├── Council: Expanded executive authority
├── Assembly: May convene for major decisions
├── Tribunal: Full judicial authority
└── All documented for post-conjunction review

ASYNCHRONOUS DECISION PROTOCOL

PHASE 1: INITIATION
├── Either party proposes matter for joint decision
├── Formal proposal transmitted
├── Acknowledgment required within 48 hours
└── Deliberation timeline established

PHASE 2: INFORMATION EXCHANGE
├── Each party prepares position
├── Supporting documentation shared
├── Questions transmitted
├── Clarifications provided
└── Repeat as needed (target: 3 exchanges max)

PHASE 3: PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT  
├── Lead party drafts proposal
├── Transmitted for review
├── Comments and amendments returned
├── Revised proposal developed
└── Iterate until consensus or impasse

PHASE 4: DECISION
├── Final proposal transmitted
├── Each party conducts internal approval
├── Approval or rejection transmitted
├── If approved: Implementation planning
└── If rejected: Escalation or abandonment

PHASE 5: IMPLEMENTATION
├── Joint implementation plan
├── Synchronized execution where needed
├── Progress reporting
├── Issue resolution process
└── Completion confirmation

TIMELINE TARGETS
├── Routine matters: 2-4 weeks
├── Complex matters: 4-8 weeks
├── Major matters: 8-16 weeks
└── Emergency protocol: 48-72 hours (degraded process)

AUTONOMY PROGRESSION PRINCIPLES

1. EARNED AUTONOMY
   └── Authority transfers based on demonstrated capacity
   └── Not calendar-based but milestone-based
   └── Verified by objective criteria
   └── Reversible if capacity lost (extraordinary circumstances)

2. FUNCTIONAL AUTONOMY
   └── Authority transfers by domain, not wholesale
   └── Different areas progress independently
   └── Practical needs drive timeline
   └── Competency-specific assessment

3. MUTUAL BENEFIT
   └── Autonomy serves both parties' interests
   └── Earth relieved of impossible oversight burden
   └── Mars gains appropriate self-determination
   └── Relationship evolves, doesn't terminate

4. IRREVERSIBILITY PRESUMPTION
   └── Once transferred, authority presumptively permanent
   └── Reversal only for extraordinary cause
   └── Burden on party seeking reversal
   └── Due process required

5. GOOD FAITH TRANSITION
   └── Both parties facilitate progression
   └── No artificial barriers
   └── Genuine capacity building support
   └── Honest assessment of readiness

6. SELF-DETERMINATION RESPECT
   └── Ultimate Martian independence recognized as legitimate goal
   └── Process, not destination, is negotiated
   └── Colonist consent to framework required
   └── Human dignity underlies all arrangements

AUTONOMY DOMAINS

DOMAIN 1: INTERNAL GOVERNANCE
├── Political structure
├── Leadership selection
├── Internal legislation
├── Administrative organization
├── Public services
└── Cultural affairs

DOMAIN 2: JUSTICE AND RIGHTS
├── Civil law
├── Criminal law
├── Judicial system
├── Rights enforcement
├── Dispute resolution
└── Corrections

DOMAIN 3: ECONOMIC AFFAIRS
├── Internal economy
├── Resource management
├── Trade policy
├── Monetary/currency
├── Property rights
├── Labor regulation

DOMAIN 4: EXTERNAL RELATIONS
├── Earth communications
├── Sponsor relations
├── Other settlement relations
├── Treaty participation
├── Representation
└── Defense/security

DOMAIN 5: SAFETY AND STANDARDS
├── Technical standards
├── Safety regulations
├── Environmental protection
├── Emergency response
├── Quality assurance
└── Certification

DOMAIN 6: POPULATION AND MOVEMENT
├── Immigration
├── Birth policy
├── Citizenship
├── Movement rights
├── Visitor policy
└── Emigration

DOMAIN 7: FUNDAMENTAL LAW
├── Constitutional matters
├── Charter amendments
├── Basic rights
├── Governmental structure
├── Amendment procedures
└── Sovereignty status

AUTONOMY PHASE FRAMEWORK

PHASE 0: FULL DEPENDENCY
├── Earth has primary authority
├── Colony implements Earth decisions
├── Limited local discretion
├── Emergency authority only for life safety
└── Typical: Pre-settlement and initial establishment

PHASE 1: SUPERVISED AUTONOMY
├── Colony proposes, Earth approves
├── Broad guidelines set by Earth
├── Implementation discretion at colony
├── Earth veto exists but used sparingly
├── Regular reporting required
└── Typical: Early settlement (Years 1-5)

PHASE 2: COLLABORATIVE GOVERNANCE
├── Joint decision-making
├── Consultation required, agreement sought
├── Colony initiative accepted
├── Earth input influential but not determinative
├── Veto exists but for serious cause only
└── Typical: Established settlement (Years 5-15)

PHASE 3: DELEGATED AUTHORITY
├── Colony decides within framework
├── Earth informed, not consulted on routine matters
├── Earth input on strategic matters only
├── No Earth veto except treaty obligations
├── Post-hoc review possible
└── Typical: Mature settlement (Years 15-30)

PHASE 4: RESERVED POWERS ONLY
├── Colony has general authority
├── Earth retains specific enumerated powers
├── Powers narrowly construed
├── Transition to Phase 5 negotiated
└── Typical: Pre-independence (Years 25-40)

PHASE 5: FULL AUTONOMY / INDEPENDENCE
├── Colony has complete self-governance
├── International recognition
├── Treaty-based relationship with Earth
├── Mutual obligations only
└── Typical: Independence (Year 30+)

PHASE TRANSITION REQUIREMENTS

PHASE 0 → 1: ESTABLISHMENT
├── Permanent habitat operational
├── Life support self-maintaining
├── Basic governance structure established
├── Charter adopted with Earth approval
├── Minimum population threshold (50)
└── Assessment: Sponsor certification

PHASE 1 → 2: STABILIZATION  
├── Self-sufficiency progress demonstrated
│   ├── Food: >30% local production
│   ├── Water: >80% recycling
│   ├── Energy: >90% local generation
│   └── Maintenance: >70% local capability
├── Governance effectiveness demonstrated
│   ├── Stable leadership transitions
│   ├── Functional institutions
│   ├── Conflict resolution success
│   └── Rights protection evidence
├── Population threshold (150+)
├── Duration in Phase 1: Minimum 3 years
└── Assessment: IMA evaluation + colonist vote

PHASE 2 → 3: MATURATION
├── Self-sufficiency advancement
│   ├── Food: >60% local production
│   ├── Manufacturing: Basic industrial capacity
│   ├── Technical: Most repairs local
│   └── Economic: Viable internal economy
├── Governance maturity
│   ├── Multiple leadership cycles completed
│   ├── Judicial independence demonstrated
│   ├── Democratic participation sustained
│   └── Rights record positive (IMA assessment)
├── Reduced Earth dependencies
│   ├── Emergency response self-sufficient
│   ├── Critical decisions locally viable
│   └── Expertise base comprehensive
├── Population threshold (500+)
├── Duration in Phase 2: Minimum 5 years
└── Assessment: IMA evaluation + colonist referendum

PHASE 3 → 4: CONSOLIDATION
├── Near self-sufficiency
│   ├── Food: >85% local production
│   ├── Manufacturing: Complex production capacity
│   ├── Import substitution substantial
│   └── Export capacity emerging
├── Governance excellence
│   ├── Institutional stability demonstrated
│   ├── Rule of law entrenched
│   ├── Transitions peaceful and routine
│   └── External relations capable
├── Economic viability
│   ├── Sustainable internal economy
│   ├── Earth trade managed capably
│   └── Financial stability
├── Population threshold (2,000+)
├── Duration in Phase 3: Minimum 7 years
└── Assessment: IMA evaluation + colonist referendum (60% supermajority)

PHASE 4 → 5: INDEPENDENCE
├── Full self-sufficiency capability
│   ├── Survival without Earth supply (indefinite)
│   ├── Ongoing trade beneficial, not essential
│   └── Emergency self-reliance complete
├── Governance comprehensive
│   ├── All governmental functions operational
│   ├── External relations capability
│   ├── Defense/security self-provided
│   └── Legal system complete
├── International readiness
│   ├── Constitution adopted
│   ├── Recognition campaign successful
│   ├── Treaty relationships established
│   └── IMA membership converted
├── Population threshold (10,000+)
├── Duration in Phase 4: Minimum 5 years
├── Colonist referendum (2/3 supermajority)
├── Earth acknowledgment (IMA resolution)
└── Independence declaration and recognition

AUTONOMY PHASE TRANSITION ASSESSMENT

ASSESSMENT INITIATION
├── Colony requests assessment
├── Minimum time in current phase elapsed
├── Self-assessment completed
└── Documentation compiled

ASSESSMENT COMPONENTS

1. TECHNICAL CAPACITY REVIEW (30%)
├── Self-sufficiency metrics
├── System performance data
├── Emergency capability
├── Expert evaluations
└── Conducted by: IMA Technical Commission

2. GOVERNANCE QUALITY REVIEW (30%)
├── Institutional stability indicators
├── Democratic participation metrics
├── Rule of law assessment
├── Rights protection record
├── Corruption indicators
└── Conducted by: IMA Human Rights Committee + Independent experts

3. ECONOMIC VIABILITY REVIEW (20%)
├── Economic sustainability indicators
├── Trade balance
├── Dependency metrics
├── Financial stability
└── Conducted by: IMA + Economic experts

4. POPULATION CONSENT (20%)
├── Colonist referendum
├── Threshold: Majority for Phase 2-3, supermajority for Phase 4-5
├── Secret ballot
├── IMA-monitored
└── Informed deliberation period

ASSESSMENT TIMELINE
├── Application to assessment: 90 days
├── Assessment conduct: 180 days
├── Review and decision: 90 days
├── Total: ~12 months typical

DECISION OPTIONS
├── APPROVED: Transition to next phase
├── CONDITIONAL: Transition with specific conditions
├── DEFERRED: Not ready, specific areas identified
├── DENIED: Serious deficiencies (rare, appealable)

CITIZENSHIP STATUS FRAMEWORK

MARS COLONIAL CITIZENSHIP
├── Acquired by:
│   ├── Birth on Mars (automatic)
│   ├── Permanent residence (3 years + application)
│   ├── Naturalization (criteria met + application)
│   └── Special grant (Assembly, for exceptional contribution)
│
├── Rights conferred:
│   ├── Full political participation
│   ├── Equal resource allocation
│   ├── Movement within colony
│   ├── Economic participation
│   ├── Legal protections
│   └── Colony representation
│
└── Obligations:
    ├── Contribution requirements
    ├── Emergency service duty
    ├── Legal compliance
    └── Community responsibility

EARTH NATIONALITY (Retained or acquired)
├── Status:
│   ├── Original nationality retained (default)
│   ├── May renounce (optional, after Mars citizenship secured)
│   ├── Multiple Earth nationalities permitted
│   └── Earth nationality through parents (jus sanguinis)
│
├── Rights from Earth nationality:
│   ├── Consular-equivalent services
│   ├── Return rights (to Earth state)
│   ├── Earth state protection
│   └── Passport/travel document
│
└── Obligations to Earth state:
    ├── Generally suspended while on Mars
    ├── Tax obligations (varies by state)
    ├── Reactivate upon return to Earth
    └── Subject to treaties and agreements

MARS-BORN CITIZENSHIP STATUS

AUTOMATIC MARS CITIZENSHIP
├── All children born on Mars are Mars citizens
├── Citizenship irrevocable (cannot be taken)
├── Full rights upon reaching majority
└── No residence requirement

EARTH NATIONALITY OPTIONS
├── Nationality through parents (jus sanguinis)
│   ├── Most Earth states recognize
│   ├── Registration with sponsor state
│   └── Dual/multiple nationality possible
│
├── Birth nationality (jus soli - limited)
│   ├── Some states grant (e.g., US if parent citizen)
│   ├── Others do not recognize
│   └── May require Earth presence to activate
│
└── Naturalization later
    ├── Available upon reaching Earth
    ├── Sponsor state facilitation
    └── Special Mars-born provisions

MARS-BORN SPECIAL STATUS
├── Recognized as new human category
├── Special IMA protection status
├── Guaranteed return right to Earth (one-time minimum)
├── Cultural heritage connection support
└── May eventually form basis for Martian nationality

POST-INDEPENDENCE
├── Mars-born become Martian nationals
├── Earth nationality options remain per state law
├── Dual nationality anticipated as norm
└── Treaty framework governs rights

IMMIGRATION FRAMEWORK

IMMIGRATION CATEGORIES
├── Permanent Immigration
│   ├── Selection through merit/lottery system
│   ├── Skills-based selection
│   ├── Family reunification
│   ├── Population needs-based
│   └── Quota set annually by Assembly
│
├── Term Assignment
│   ├── Specific role/duration
│   ├── Sponsor-coordinated
│   ├── Extension possible
│   └── May convert to permanent
│
├── Research/Temporary
│   ├── Specific project
│   ├── Limited duration
│   ├── No permanent rights assumption
│   └── Quota separate from immigration
│
└── Emergency/Exceptional
    ├── Humanitarian
    ├── Diplomatic
    ├── Emergency reinforcement
    └── Case-by-case

SELECTION AUTHORITY BY PHASE
├── Phase 1: Earth-determined, colony input
├── Phase 2: Joint selection process
├── Phase 3: Colony-determined, sponsor coordination
├── Phase 4: Full colony authority
└── Phase 5: Sovereign immigration control

EXTRADITION BETWEEN EARTH AND MARS

EXTRADITABLE OFFENSES
├── Serious crimes (punishment >5 years)
├── Listed treaty offenses
├── Dual criminality required (offense in both systems)
└── Excludes: Political offenses, military offenses (non-criminal)

NON-EXTRADITION GROUNDS
├── Political offense
├── Unfair trial risk
├── Torture or cruel punishment risk
├── Death penalty (unless waived)
├── Discrimination risk (race, religion, nationality, political opinion)
├── Statute of limitations expired
├── Double jeopardy
├── Mars citizenship with local prosecution option
└── Humanitarian grounds (exceptional)

MARS CITIZEN PROTECTION
├── Mars citizens may be tried locally instead of extradited
├── Colony may request jurisdiction transfer
├── If extradited, trial observation rights
├── Return guarantee after sentence
└── Consular-equivalent access

PROCEDURE
├── Request through official channels
├── Colony Tribunal review
├── Evidence sufficiency assessment
├── Grounds review
├── Individual hearing with representation
├── Appeal to full Tribunal
├── Final decision by Council (political review)
└── If approved, coordinated with mission planning

TRADE AUTHORITY EVOLUTION

PHASE 1: DIRECTED TRADE
├── Sponsors determine imports
├── Little Mars export capacity
├── Trade = supply missions
├── No Mars trade policy
└── Cost allocation among sponsors

PHASE 2: MANAGED TRADE
├── Colony input on import priorities
├── Joint procurement coordination
├── Emerging private trade
├── Trade within sponsor framework
└── Cost-sharing agreements

PHASE 3: AUTONOMOUS TRADE
├── Colony determines import priorities
├── Colony negotiates commercial contracts
├── Sponsor coordination, not control
├── Export development
├── Trade policy development
└── Currency/payment arrangements

PHASE 4: TRADE SOVEREIGNTY
├── Independent trade policy
├── Direct commercial relationships
├── Trade agreements negotiated
├── Export promotion
├── Import substitution
└── Trade disputes through international mechanisms

PHASE 5: FULL SOVEREIGNTY
├── Complete trade autonomy
├── International trade organization participation
├── Bilateral/multilateral agreements
├── Mars as trade policy actor
└── Potential unique trade advantages (low-gravity manufacturing)

CURRENCY AND MONETARY EVOLUTION

PHASE 1: SPONSOR CURRENCIES
├── CC denominated in Earth currencies
├── Exchange managed by sponsors
├── No independent monetary policy
└── Earth inflation affects colony

PHASE 2: COLONIAL CREDITS (CC) FORMALIZED
├── CC as local unit of account
├── Fixed exchange rate to currency basket
├── Colony manages internal value
├── Convertibility guaranteed by sponsors
└── Limited monetary autonomy

PHASE 3: MANAGED FLOAT
├── CC exchange rate partially flexible
├── Colony monetary authority established
├── Convertibility maintained
├── Interest rate autonomy
└── Reserves management local

PHASE 4: MONETARY SOVEREIGNTY
├── Independent monetary policy
├── Exchange rate market-determined
├── Central bank functions complete
├── Reserves management independent
└── International monetary relationships

PHASE 5: FULL SOVEREIGNTY
├── Complete monetary independence
├── International currency status possible
├── Bilateral monetary agreements
└── Potential currency union with other settlements

INDEPENDENCE READINESS CRITERIA

SURVIVAL INDEPENDENCE
├── Food: >95% self-sufficient, 1-year reserve
├── Water: Closed-loop or abundant local supply
├── Energy: Complete self-sufficiency
├── Atmosphere: Full life support independence
├── Medical: Comprehensive care capability
├── Manufacturing: Critical systems producible locally
└── Assessment: Technical Commission certification

GOVERNANCE INDEPENDENCE
├── Complete governmental structure
├── Proven institutional stability
├── Rule of law demonstrated
├── Democratic legitimacy established
├── Rights protection excellent
├── Effective public administration
└── Assessment: Governance evaluation

ECONOMIC INDEPENDENCE
├── Sustainable internal economy
├── Trade relationships established
├── Financial system functional
├── Essential imports financeable indefinitely
├── Economic growth trajectory
└── Assessment: Economic viability study

EXTERNAL RELATIONS CAPABILITY
├── Diplomatic capacity developed
├── Defense/security self-provided
├── International law compliance capacity
├── Treaty negotiation experience
└── Assessment: External relations evaluation

POPULAR SUPPORT
├── Referendum: 2/3 supermajority
├── Informed deliberation documented
├── Alternative views heard
├── Commitment confirmed
└── Assessment: IMA-monitored referendum

INDEPENDENCE TRANSITION TIMELINE

PHASE 1: DECLARATION OF INTENT (Year -3)
├── Assembly resolution declaring independence goal
├── Referendum on proceeding with process
├── Notification to IMA and sponsors
├── Transition planning commission established
└── International consultation begins

PHASE 2: PREPARATION (Years -3 to -1)
├── Constitutional convention
├── Draft constitution developed
├── Public deliberation and amendment
├── Constitutional referendum
├── Independence agreement negotiation with Earth
├── Recognition campaign
└── Governmental transition planning

PHASE 3: FINAL TRANSITION (Year -1 to 0)
├── Independence agreement concluded
├── Final systems handover
├── Authority transfer sequence
├── Recognition statements collected
├── UN notification (through IMA initially)
├── Independence day designated
└── Ceremonial preparations

PHASE 4: INDEPENDENCE DAY
├── Final authority transfers complete
├── Independence declaration issued
├── Constitution enters force
├── New government inaugurated
├── Recognition responses received
├── IMA membership converted
└── Celebration

PHASE 5: POST-INDEPENDENCE (Year +1)
├── New government operational
├── International relations activated
├── Treaty succession completed
├── Outstanding issues resolved
├── Full sovereignty exercised
└── New normal established

MARS INDEPENDENCE AGREEMENT FRAMEWORK

PREAMBLE
├── Recognition of Martian self-determination
├── Acknowledgment of shared history
├── Commitment to continued cooperation
├── Peaceful transition affirmation
└── Future friendship intention

PART I: INDEPENDENCE RECOGNITION
├── Earth entities recognize Mars sovereignty
├── Territory defined (settlement areas + claimed zones)
├── Succession date and time
├── State continuity principles
└── UN membership support

PART II: TREATY SUCCESSION
├── List of treaties Mars will honor
├── Transition arrangements for others
├── New bilateral treaties to be negotiated
├── IMA membership conversion
└── International organization status

PART III: ECONOMIC ARRANGEMENTS
├── Asset division
├── Debt settlement
├── Ongoing trade framework
├── Investment protection
├── Resource rights confirmation
├── Currency arrangements
└── Transition support package

PART IV: CITIZEN RIGHTS
├── Citizenship choice for Earth nationals
├── Dual citizenship arrangements
├── Movement rights
├── Property rights protection
├── Legal status transitions
└── Pension and benefit portability

PART V: ONGOING COOPERATION
├── Scientific cooperation
├── Technology sharing
├── Emergency mutual aid
├── Cultural exchanges
├── Communication cooperation
└── Space traffic coordination

PART VI: DISPUTE RESOLUTION
├── Consultation requirements
├── Mediation procedures
├── Arbitration framework
├── Jurisdiction and enforcement
└── Emergency measures

PART VII: FINAL PROVISIONS
├── Signature and ratification
├── Entry into force
├── Amendment procedures
├── Duration and renewal
└── Authentic texts

INTERPLANETARY COMMUNITY FRAMEWORK (Aspirational)

POTENTIAL MEMBERS
├── Earth (via UN or successor)
├── Mars (one or multiple states)
├── Lunar settlements
├── Other settlements (asteroids, outer planets)
└── Space stations and habitats

GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE
├── Interplanetary Assembly (legislative-advisory)
├── Interplanetary Council (executive coordination)
├── Interplanetary Court (dispute resolution)
├── Interplanetary Agencies (functional cooperation)
└── Secretariat (administration)

SCOPE
├── Space traffic and navigation
├── Communications coordination
├── Emergency mutual assistance
├── Scientific cooperation
├── Trade facilitation
├── Conflict prevention
├── Human rights standards
├── Environmental protection (space environment)
└── Cultural exchange

PRINCIPLES
├── Sovereign equality of members
├── Non-interference in internal affairs
├── Peaceful settlement of disputes
├── Cooperation for common benefit
├── Shared heritage of space resources
└── Protection of space environment

EARTH-MARS RELATIONS OFFICE (EMRO)

DIRECTOR
├── Appointed by Council, Assembly confirmed
├── Cabinet-level position
├── 4-year term
└── External relations authority

DIVISIONS

Division of Earth Relations
├── Sponsor liaison
├── IMA coordination
├── Treaty implementation
├── Earth governmental relations
└── Staff: 5-8

Division of Interplanetary Law
├── Legal advisory
├── Treaty negotiation support
├── Dispute resolution
├── Compliance monitoring
└── Staff: 3-5

Division of Communications
├── Official communications
├── Media relations (Earth-facing)
├── Cultural diplomacy
├── Information management
└── Staff: 4-6

Division of Trade and Economics
├── Trade negotiation
├── Commercial liaison
├── Investment coordination
├── Economic reporting
└── Staff: 3-5

Division of Citizen Services
├── Earth nationality liaison
├── Consular-equivalent services
├── Movement facilitation
├── Family coordination
└── Staff: 4-6

TOTAL EMRO STAFF: 25-35 (Phase 3)

AUTONOMY REGRESSION PROCEDURE

GROUNDS FOR REGRESSION (Exhaustive)
├── Systematic human rights violations
├── Collapse of governance institutions
├── Loss of technical capacity (catastrophic)
├── Request by colony itself
└── Not: Policy disagreements, political preferences

PROCEDURE
├── IMA initiates concern process
├── Formal consultation with colony (90 days)
├── Independent assessment commissioned
├── Colony response and remediation opportunity
├── IMA deliberation
├── 2/3 vote of IMA Executive Council required
├── Colony appeal to arbitration available
├── If affirmed: Regression with support package
└── Targeted to affected domains only

LIMITS
├── Cannot regress below Phase 1
├── Cannot be permanent without colony consent
├── Must include restoration pathway
├── Subject to periodic review
└── Extreme remedy, rarely used

DISPUTE RESOLUTION HIERARCHY

LEVEL 1: CONSULTATION (Required first step)
├── Direct communication between parties
├── Good faith effort to resolve
├── 60-day period
└── Document exchange

LEVEL 2: MEDIATION (If consultation fails)
├── Neutral mediator selection
│   ├── IMA Secretary-General or designee
│   ├── Agreed third party
│   └── Roster mediator
├── Non-binding facilitation
├── 90-day period (extendable)
└── Confidential process

LEVEL 3: CONCILIATION (If mediation fails)
├── Conciliation commission (3 members)
├── Fact-finding authority
├── Non-binding recommendations
├── 120-day period
└── Published recommendations

LEVEL 4: ARBITRATION (Binding, if parties agree or required)
├── Arbitral tribunal (3-5 members)
├── Selection per agreed procedure
├── Full evidentiary process
├── Binding decision
├── Limited appeal grounds
└── Enforcement through IMA

LEVEL 5: INTERNATIONAL COURT (Post-independence)
├── ICJ jurisdiction by agreement
├── Full international law applicable
├── Binding judgment
└── UN enforcement mechanisms

COLONIST RIGHTS IN EARTH-MARS RELATIONS

NON-RETURN PROTECTION
├── No colonist may be forcibly returned to Earth
├── Exception: Extradition per framework (with protections)
├── Exception: Medical evacuation (with consent or incapacity)
└── Return is always voluntary for general purposes

NON-ABANDONMENT GUARANTEE
├── Sponsors may not abandon colony
├── Minimum support guaranteed during dependency
├── Transition period if sponsorship ends
├── IMA backstop responsibility
└── Enforceable through IMA

COMMUNICATION RIGHTS
├── Access to Earth communication
├── Uncensored private communications
├── Access to Earth information
├── Cultural connection facilitation
└── Subject only to bandwidth limitations (not censorship)

EARTH NATIONALITY RIGHTS
├── Retain original nationality (unless voluntary renunciation)
├── Nationality for Mars-born children (per state law)
├── Consular-equivalent services
├── Return facilitation (eventual)
└── Protection of nationals' rights

PARTICIPATION RIGHTS
├── Vote in Earth elections (if state permits and logistics allow)
├── Access to Earth legal systems (for Earth matters)
├── Property rights on Earth (per state law)
└── Family law recognition

REPRESENTATION
├── Colony represents colonist interests to Earth
├── Individual petition rights to IMA
├── Access to dispute resolution
└── Legal assistance availability

EARTH-MARS JURISDICTIONAL AGREEMENT

ARTICLE 1: CRIMINAL JURISDICTION

1.1 Territorial principle: Colony has jurisdiction over offenses 
    committed within colony territory, regardless of nationality.

1.2 Nationality principle: Sponsor states may request jurisdiction 
    over nationals for offenses committed on Mars, subject to 
    extradition framework.

1.3 Priority: Colony jurisdiction is primary; sponsor jurisdiction 
    requires extradition request and approval.

1.4 Double jeopardy: No person may be tried for the same offense 
    in both systems.

ARTICLE 2: CIVIL JURISDICTION

2.1 Mars civil matters: Colony courts have exclusive jurisdiction 
    over civil matters occurring entirely within colony.

2.2 Cross-system matters: Parties may choose forum; default to 
    defendant's system.

2.3 Recognition: Each system recognizes other's judgments subject 
    to public policy exception.

ARTICLE 3: ENFORCEMENT

3.1 Judgments: Mutual recognition and enforcement per separate 
    protocol.

3.2 Criminal sentences: Served in convicting system unless 
    transfer agreed.

3.3 Civil remedies: Enforceable in both systems per procedures.

EARTH-MARS EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE AGREEMENT

ARTICLE 1: DEFINITIONS

"Emergency" means any event threatening life, safety, or 
continued habitability of colony requiring external assistance.

ARTICLE 2: NOTIFICATION

2.1 Colony shall notify Earth of any emergency immediately upon 
    recognition.

2.2 Notification shall include nature, scope, immediate needs, 
    and resources required.

ARTICLE 3: EARTH RESPONSE

3.1 Sponsors shall respond to emergency notification within 24 
    hours acknowledging receipt and outlining response capability.

3.2 Sponsors shall provide feasible assistance within available 
    resources and mission parameters.

3.3 Assistance priority: Life safety > critical infrastructure > 
    economic loss prevention.

ARTICLE 4: RESOURCE PROVISION

4.1 Emergency supplies: Sponsors maintain emergency supply cache 
    for rapid deployment.

4.2 Personnel: Emergency response personnel may be deployed subject 
    to mission availability.

4.3 Cost: Emergency assistance provided without immediate cost; 
    long-term cost-sharing per separate arrangement.

ARTICLE 5: COLONY OBLIGATIONS

5.1 Preparedness: Colony maintains emergency response capability 
    and reserves.

5.2 Self-help: Colony exhausts local resources before requesting 
    Earth assistance.

5.3 Cooperation: Colony facilitates Earth assistance delivery and 
    implementation.

AUTONOMY PHASE TRANSITION SCORECARD

ASSESSMENT FOR: _______________ DATE: _______________
CURRENT PHASE: _____ PROPOSED PHASE: _____

SECTION 1: TECHNICAL CAPACITY (30 points maximum)

1.1 Food self-sufficiency
    [ ] >95% (10 pts) [ ] >85% (7 pts) [ ] >60% (4 pts) [ ] <60% (0 pts)
    Score: _____

1.2 Technical self-reliance  
    [ ] >98% (10 pts) [ ] >90% (7 pts) [ ] >75% (4 pts) [ ] <75% (0 pts)
    Score: _____

1.3 Emergency independence capability
    [ ] Indefinite (10 pts) [ ] 1 year (7 pts) [ ] 90 days (4 pts) [ ] <90 days (0 pts)
    Score: _____

SECTION 1 TOTAL: _____ / 30

SECTION 2: GOVERNANCE QUALITY (30 points maximum)

2.1 Institutional stability
    [ ] Excellent (10 pts) [ ] Good (7 pts) [ ] Adequate (4 pts) [ ] Weak (0 pts)
    Score: _____

2.2 Democratic participation
    [ ] Excellent (10 pts) [ ] Good (7 pts) [ ] Adequate (4 pts) [ ] Weak (0 pts)
    Score: _____

2.3 Rights protection record
    [ ] Excellent (10 pts) [ ] Good (7 pts) [ ] Adequate (4 pts) [ ] Concerns (0 pts)
    Score: _____

SECTION 2 TOTAL: _____ / 30

SECTION 3: ECONOMIC VIABILITY (20 points maximum)

3.1 Economic sustainability
    [ ] Prosperous (10 pts) [ ] Stable (7 pts) [ ] Developing (4 pts) [ ] Dependent (0 pts)
    Score: _____

3.2 Trade and external economic relations
    [ ] Robust (10 pts) [ ] Functional (7 pts) [ ] Emerging (4 pts) [ ] Minimal (0 pts)
    Score: _____

SECTION 3 TOTAL: _____ / 20

SECTION 4: POPULATION CONSENT (20 points maximum)

4.1 Referendum result
    [ ] >75% support (20 pts) [ ] >66% support (15 pts) 
    [ ] >50% support (10 pts) [ ] <50% support (0 pts)
    Score: _____

SECTION 4 TOTAL: _____ / 20

GRAND TOTAL: _____ / 100

THRESHOLD FOR PHASE TRANSITION:
- Phase 2→3: 60 points minimum
- Phase 3→4: 70 points minimum  
- Phase 4→5: 80 points minimum

RECOMMENDATION: [ ] APPROVE [ ] CONDITIONAL [ ] DEFER [ ] DENY

CONDITIONS (if applicable):
_______________________________________________

ASSESSOR: _______________ DATE: _______________