After listening to the podcast, where minor factions were a topic for discussion.

Looking forward post launch of ES2.  Minor civs seems to be a topic that would benefit from expansion.  The idea being that these minor civs can play a very important role in development of empires they reside in.  They could through good diplomacy be fun to interact with.  By definition a minor  faction is a sovereign state living within the sphere of influence of a empire.  It has its own culture, government and self determination.

Political parties could have polarising effects.  If an empire is at war and adopts a military government.  A minor faction might become a pacifist government as a means of balancing out internal political effects through unhappiness.  Successful management might provide a yet to be imagined government type that offers greater rewards, co operation  and ethics.  Depending on management they could support or rebel, against empires global policy.  These interaction would provide interesting domestic play and considerations.  They might if the threat is mutual, support empire fleets, or offer tribute in the form of dust or tech.  Giving minor factions a greater role provides a much deeper depth to micro managing a large galactic empire and I think would help to form alliances and federations that are much stronger and resilient to psychopathic empires hell bent on torching the galaxy.  

Just some thoughts on where this game could go regarding minor factions.  What do you fellow races of the endless think!