Thought it might be interesting to sort of compile what little we know about the factions in this universe, as well as speculate a bit on what can be inferred by the old map.
Eisenkern Empire- Germanized, preciding over an ever-expanding and heavily industrialized Empire and increasingly resourced-stretched by a war with the Shadowkesh. As indicated by the overlap on the map, even the Imperial capital is/has been assaulted by the Shadowkesh. 'Empire' makes me think Emperor? Dictator?
Shadowkesh- Hive-minded avian invaders from outside of the Iron-Core universe. Cold, remoreseless etc. Formerly part of a greater whole.
Protectorate- Soviet-inspired, from what we've been shown, so a bit can be extrapolated from their. Involved in some territorial disputes with the 'Commonwealth' as indicated with the map, and likely hostile with the Eisenkern as well, judging by blurbs of lore on Eisenkern boxes. Possibly some form of 'party' government?
Dhar-Hazier- Seem to originate, or have expanded to, outside of the known Galaxy, much like the Shadowkesh, against whom they are waging a bloody war. Seem to have small warrior dynasty led by kings and queens, according to what I've seen from the old documents posted about, as well as 'enhaned' warriors of some king. Potentially Arabian influence?
Brotherhood- Nothing known, but seeing as the occupy the very center of the galaxy, must be a faction of some importance. Interestingly they don't seem to be in any border conflicts. Potentially a 'Switzerland' of factions?
Commonwealth- Involved in some border disputes with the Protectorate, little else known. Potentially English-influenced?
Republic- Following the theme of the above, this seems the most likely 'Americanized' faction, in keeping with the other themes I'm assuming.
Kraggen: ??, however it appears to have two capitals?
Anyway, I just thought this would be a fun little lore/narrative exercise. Been reading the forum stuff for awhile and wanted to put my unprompted two-cents in, so to speak. :)