News & Notices

2026 census completed: population approximately 12.8 million

The Federal Statistics Office released the 2026 census results today. The resident population is 12,804,731, about 1.3% higher than the previous census. Growth slowed for a fourth consecutive cycle, with low fertility and population aging.

The two-month census began in May and covered five federal divisions and over 170 counties and cities. Fully electronic collection was used for the first time: about 78% of households filed online or by mobile, with enumerators assisting the rest. Follow-up and data completeness reached record levels.

By administrative division:Valzburg Capital Territoryapproximately 2.14 million, the most densely populated region;Esterland Provinceapproximately 3.42 million, with steady growth supported by manufacturing and urban centers;South Coast Provinceapproximately 2.86 million, with coastal cities attracting migration;Osterland Provinceapproximately 2.49 million; the inland region ofValdinia Provinceapproximately 1.93 million, the smallest share. Regional proportions remain broadly balanced against the previous cycle.

People aged 0–14 account for 15.2%, ages 15–64 for 66.4%, and ages 65 and over for 18.4%. The older population's share rose about 2.3 percentage points over five years. Of working-age residents, 47% have higher education. Average first marriage ages are 30.8 for men and 29.6 for women; total fertility declined to 1.46.

Census results will guide parliamentary seat allocation, fiscal transfers and public service planning, including targeted pension, childcare and workforce policies.

Parliament adopts amendments to the Digital Economy Promotion Act

Parliament adopted Digital Economy Promotion Act amendments today by 89 votes to 14. Effective next 1 January, they provide clearer governance for digital industries and stronger data security and individual rights.

The amendments cover four main areas:

• Data rights & movement: rights to information, access, portability and deletion, with mechanisms for data portability. Critical-sector data must be stored and processed domestically or in approved compliant jurisdictions.
• Platform governance: gatekeeper rules require major systemic platforms to be transparent, avoid self-preferencing and support interoperability, with stronger algorithmic accountability.
• Artificial intelligence regulation: tiered registration and impact assessment for high-risk AI, and labeling of synthetic content from generative models for traceability.
• Innovation & openness: a digital innovation fund, research tax incentives and government data interfaces for small technology firms, with cross-border data cooperation.

The People's Chamber committee described a balance between innovation and safety, informed by major economies' regulatory practice. Opponents raised compliance-cost concerns. The government will publish implementation rules and transitional arrangements before commencement.

Valzburg–Esterland high-speed railway opens

The Valzburg–Esterland high-speed railway opened this morning. The 208 km line, designed for 350 km/h, uses ballastless track and automatic train control. Travel falls from 2 hours 40 minutes by road to about 52 minutes.

Construction began in 2021 and took five years. The country's largest transport project connects the Warm Bay Economic Area. Four stations serve Valzburg Central, Newbuild, Vaditz and Esterland South; three are new.

Across Silver Ridge's eastern foothills and the Golden Grain Belt, eleven tunnels and 34 bridges cover 62% of the route. Wildlife corridors and reclaimed construction materials reduce its impact. Electric trains are projected to reduce annual emissions by about 140,000 tonnes compared with road transport.

The ministry announced introductory fares and additional services for the first month. A planned southern extension to New Harbor will create a north–south rapid passenger corridor.

Republic celebrates its 178th National Day and Government Open Day

Soldavia celebrates its 178th National Day today. Flags, a parade, civic processions and fireworks marked the occasion in Valzburg. President Aleksander Walden called for unity and respect for law and freedom.

About 6,000 army, navy, air force and gendarmerie personnel marched along Central Avenue. An aerobatic formation traced the national colors above Parliament. International guests and diplomats attended.

Government Open Day accompanied the celebrations. The Presidency, Parliament, Supreme Court and ministries welcomed booked visits and public suggestions, receiving over 30,000 visitors on the first day.

Coastal cities and regional capitals held evening light shows and fireworks. Museums and cultural facilities are free during National Day week, with a Mountains and Seas celebration season continuing into mid-August.

Government publishes Green Development Plan 2026–2036

The Council of State released the Green Development Plan 2026–2036 today. Its central goals are a 55% reduction in net greenhouse emissions from 2025 and 70% renewable final energy consumption by 2036, supported by six major actions.

The plan addresses energy, industry, transport, buildings, agriculture and ecosystems. It phases out coal, expands offshore wind and distributed solar, improves industrial efficiency and develops circular production and carbon capture.

Transport measures expand electrified rail and electric vehicles, with 300 km of new high-speed rail, urban rail and zero-emission buses over ten years. Buildings receive efficiency upgrades and near-zero-energy standards. Agriculture and ecosystems benefit from water-saving and organic practices and forest and wetland restoration.

A green development fund, carbon markets and clearer green-finance and disclosure standards support implementation. International cooperation will promote technology and standards recognition and fulfill carbon-neutrality commitments.

The ministry will seek public comments and prepare annual actions and monitoring to make targets measurable and achievable.