News

Articles from liberland.org

2023

Liberland's New Year's Retreat 2024
Begin the new year with a clear mind, an open heart, and a rejuvenated spirit. The last two blissfully refreshing days of the year are full of music, nature, self-care, healthy food, ice bathing, meditation, rest, story sharing in front of the fire, and making new friendships. This retreat will be an opportunity for you to have some quiet time, space, and contemplation. Alongside the morning and evening programs, there will be space to reflect on the year passed and all the lessons learned before re-setting intentions for the new year ahead. Event Highlights: Welcome to 2024: Join us for an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration at the picturesque Liberland Ark Village. Accommodation: Experience a cosy stay with 2 nights in 2-bed cabins situated by the tranquil lake. Wake up to breathtaking views and the promise of a day filled with excitement. Culinary Delights: Indulge in 2 rich meals per day, specially curated to tantalize your taste buds. Plus, savour a delectable special New Year's cake as we bid farewell to 2023. Relax: Enjoy the wellness amenities, including a sauna and invigorating ice bath. New Year's Eve Party: The main event! Your ticket includes access to the all-inclusive New Year's Eve Party on December 31st. Dance the night away with unlimited drinks and delectable food offerings. It's a night of celebration you won't want to miss! Special Gift: As our guest, receive a unique New Year's Eve gift and enjoy all-inclusive access to unlimited drinks and food. Ticket Information: Only 10 spots are available! Secure your spot now by visiting our website. Join us for an intimate celebration, surrounded by nature's beauty, exquisite cuisine, and the promise of a spectacular New Year. Don't miss your chance—reserve your spot now and make memories that last a lifetime! 🎉
Liberland: An Oasis for Cryptocurrency Maximalists
Liberland is the ideal destination, resonating profoundly with the values and aspirations of cryptocurrency maximalists. In the world of cryptocurrencies, true believers in blockchains and Web3 technology seek a haven that aligns with their belief in decentralized systems, borderless transactions, and financial sovereignty. Enter Liberland - the ideal destination, resonating profoundly with the values and aspirations of cryptocurrency maximalists. Currency Freedom and Cryptocurrency Adoption: In Liberland, e-Residents, citizens and even tourists enjoy the freedom to choose their preferred currency for transactions. This means that we, as cryptocurrency maximalists, can easily use our beloved Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum ether (ETH), or any other digital assets to pay for goods and services without the limitations imposed by conventional legal tender. Liberland's government itself accepts BTC, Bitcoin Cash (BCH), and ETH alongside several fiat currencies. Absence of Central Bank and Inflation Concerns: The absence of a Liberland central bank is a boon for us as we seek full financial sovereignty. Concerns about a centralized, unelected entity adding more supply of currency and consequently fuelling inflation are alleviated. This setup aligns perfectly with our maximalist stance on fixed-supply digital currencies, such as Bitcoin, creating a more predictable and stable economic environment. Liberland's own governance and citizenship token, Liberland merits (LLM), has a fixed supply of 70 million in alignment with this stance. For more information, read about LLM tokenomics. Transparency via Public Blockchain: Transparency and accountability are foundational principles in a libertarian state such as Liberland. Here, the state's activities are conducted on a public blockchain, Liberland Blockchain, ensuring that all transactions and activities are visible and verifiable by anyone. This transparent system resonates with our fellow cryptocurrency maximalists’ strong preference for decentralized, trustless networks. Learn more about Liberland Blockchain here. Treasury Held in Bitcoin: A unique aspect of Liberland is its treasury management. Embracing the ethos of cryptocurrencies, Liberland holds a significant portion of the treasury in Bitcoin. This strategic move serves as a hedge against the devaluation or inflation of other currencies, echoing the sentiments of cryptocurrency maximalists who view BTC as a store of value. You can find Liberland’s annual financial reports here. Voluntary Taxes: Perhaps most appealing to cryptocurrency maximalists is the concept of voluntary taxes. As a citizen of Liberland, voluntary taxes allow cryptocurrency traders to buy, sell, and exchange digital assets for gains without the worry of stringent capital gains taxes. This freedom enables them to engage in the cryptocurrency market without the burden of heavy tax implications, and also for businesses to hold BTC or other volatile assets as a hedge against fiat currencies. Being a Liberlander, whether as an E-Resident or citizen, embodies the core values we cherish: freedom of choice, decentralized systems, transparency, and financial autonomy. It offers an environment that embraces the principles of digital currencies, providing a platform for individuals to thrive in a community that resonates with their beliefs. By choosing to become a citizen of Liberland or conduct business through Liberland, cryptocurrency maximalists find themselves in an ecosystem that mirrors their vision for a decentralized, borderless, and economically stable future.
President Jedlicka Honoured with the Gusi Peace Prize
Manilla, Philippines, 6th December 2023 – Liberland President Vít Jedlička has been distinguished as a Peace Prize Laureate with the Gusi Peace Prize in Manila, Philippines, a recognition reflecting his dedication to fostering peace, liberty, and the blockchain  governance of Liberland. This prestigious award, often likened to the ‘Asian Nobel Peace Prize’, honours leaders globally who have made significant contributions to peace and human rights. In his speech at the award ceremony, President Jedlička spoke about the founding principles of Liberland, established on 13th April 2015, in homage to Thomas Jefferson's birthday. He underscored Liberland's commitment to peaceful resolution of conflicts, neutrality, and a governance system centred on voluntary participation. "The absence of force in our governance and a justice system focused on incentives rather than punishments are key to our philosophy", Jedlička stated. He proudly noted the absence of significant injuries or loss of life in Liberland since its inception, a testament to the country's peaceful ethos. President Jedlička expressed profound gratitude for the award, viewing it as a validation of Liberland's efforts to build a society founded on freedom and voluntary exchange. "This award strengthens our resolve to continue striving for a world where liberty and peace prevail", he remarked.  The Gusi Peace Prize, established in 2002, is named after the World War II veteran and Filipino guerrilla, Captain Gemeniano Javier Gusi. It symbolizes a commitment to global peace and human dignity, celebrating achievements in various fields including statesmanship, science, and humanitarianism. The annual ceremony in Manila brings together laureates from around the world, highlighting their contributions to the pursuit of peace and freedom. Past laureates include prominent figures such as President Kgalema Motlanthe of South Africa, Prime Minister Timothy Harris of St. Kitts and Nevis, and President Arnold Rüütel of Estonia, illustrating the prestige and international recognition associated with this award. With this accolade, President Jedlička joins an esteemed group of other 12 presidents and other distinguished recipients, further spotlighting Liberland's approach to nation-building and its growing influence on the global stage. About Liberland The Free Republic of Liberland, situated between Croatia and Serbia on the Danube River, was established in 2015 on unclaimed land by Vít Jedlička. Originating from a border dispute, its 7 km territory is now the third smallest sovereign state after the Vatican and Monaco. Liberland's motto, "To live and let live," reflects its commitment to personal and economic freedom. The Constitution ensures limited governmental interference in its citizens' lives. About The Gusi Peace Prize The Gusi Peace Prize, established in 2002 in the Philippines, is an international award recognizing distinguished individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to peace and human rights across the globe. Often referred to as the 'Asian Nobel Peace Prize,' it honours excellence in a range of fields including, but not limited to, statesmanship, science, economics, and humanitarianism. The prize, named after Captain Gemeniano Javier Gusi, a World War II veteran and Philippine guerrilla who later became a politician and human rights advocate, symbolizes the enduring commitment to peace and the betterment of humanity. Each year, laureates are celebrated in a ceremony in Manila, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the global pursuit of peace, freedom, and human dignity.
Liberland President Jedlicka's Gusi Peace Prize Speech
Liberland President Vít Jedlička has been awarded the Gusi Peace Prize in Manila, Philippines. During the main ceremony, he delivered an inspiring and heartfelt speech. In his speech, President Jedlička highlighted Liberland's commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and a governance system based on voluntary participation, drawing inspiration from Thomas Jefferson. He emphasized the nation's dedication to non-violence and a justice system focused on incentives rather than punishment. President Jedlicka proudly noted Liberland's record of safety and peace since its inception, expressing deep gratitude for the Gusi Peace Prize and its support in advancing Liberland's mission and values on the global stage. The Gusi Peace Prize is often referred to as the 'Asian Nobel Peace Prize,' it honours excellence in a range of fields including, but not limited to, statesmanship, science, economics, and humanitarianism. Liberland President was awarded among other notable presidents and diplomats in the past, such as President Kgalema Motlanthe from South Africa, Prime Minister Timothy Harris from St. Kitts and Nevis, President Antonio Eanes from Portugal, President Arnold Rüütel from Estonia, or President Fidel V. Ramos from the Philippines.    The full speech of the President: "Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, It’s truly a pleasure to be invited here and to be present among so many honourable guests. Liberland was born on April 13, 2015, the birthday of Thomas Jefferson. We purposefully selected this date to honour the great contributions that this founding father of the United States made to the development of civilization on our planet. A central part of Liberland's philosophy is our commitment to resolving conflicts peacefully and maintaining neutrality. This echoes Jefferson's ideals of 'peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations,' and avoiding all entangling alliances. The absence of the use of force in our governance is the second key element of how Liberland operates. When people become citizens, they pledge not to take from their fellow citizens by force. This includes stealing by the means of the state apparatus. Our tax system is voluntary. Anybody voluntarily contributing to the government receives merits in return as they become true stakeholders of the country. The third most important idea behind the formation of Liberland is the removal of violence from Liberland’s justice system and the use of incentives rather than punishments. Rather than throwing people in jail for years, the main form of punishment for crime is the removal of Merits. These three key founding rules guide us in our mission to build the freest and the most peaceful nation on the planet. It pleases me greatly to note that there have been no loss of life or even notable injury in Liberland since its inception. This is something for which I am profoundly thankful. It is our hope that this legacy continues as we strive to establish constructive relations with our neighbours and the international community. I am deeply honoured by the recognition I am receiving in the form of the Gusi Peace Prize, which significantly aids our efforts. I am honoured to salute the legacy of Captain Javier Gusi as well as Madame Gusi and of course the work of Barry and Evelyn Gusi. Thank you very much!" About The Gusi Peace Prize The Gusi Peace Prize, established in 2002 in the Philippines, is an international award recognizing distinguished individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to peace and human rights across the globe. Often referred to as the 'Asian Nobel Peace Prize,' it honours excellence in a range of fields including, but not limited to, statesmanship, science, economics, and humanitarianism. The prize, named after Captain Gemeniano Javier Gusi, a World War II veteran and Philippine guerrilla who later became a politician and human rights advocate, symbolizes the enduring commitment to peace and the betterment of humanity. Each year, laureates are celebrated in a ceremony in Manila, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the global pursuit of peace, freedom, and human dignity.
Liberland President Vit Jedlicka Awarded the Gusi Peace Prize in Manila
President Vít Jedlička of the Free Republic of Liberland has been honoured as a Peace Prize Laureate with the prestigious Gusi Peace Prize in Manila, Philippines. This recognition underscores his commitment to promoting peace, liberty, and innovative governance in Liberland, a nation founded on the principles of minimal government intervention and personal freedom. The Gusi Peace Prize, often considered Asia's Nobel Peace Prize, celebrates global leaders and change-makers contributing significantly to peace and human rights. Reacting to this honour, President Jedlička expressed his deep gratitude: "Receiving the Gusi Peace Prize is not only a personal honour but a testament to our collective efforts in Liberland to build a society based on freedom and voluntary exchange. This award strengthens our resolve to continue working towards a world where liberty and peace prevail." His leadership has brought Liberland into the spotlight, particularly for its unique approach to governance through blockchain technology, positioning it as a symbol of innovative nation-building in the 21st century.   About The Gusi Peace Prize The Gusi Peace Prize, established in 2002 in the Philippines, is an international award recognizing distinguished individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to peace and human rights across the globe. Often referred to as the 'Asian Nobel Peace Prize,' it honours excellence in a range of fields including, but not limited to, statesmanship, science, economics, and humanitarianism. The prize, named after Captain Gemeniano Javier Gusi, a World War II veteran and Philippine guerrilla who later became a politician and human rights advocate, symbolizes the enduring commitment to peace and the betterment of humanity. Each year, laureates are celebrated in a ceremony in Manila, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the global pursuit of peace, freedom, and human dignity.
Liberland Delegation Attends 50th Anniversary of ALEC in Washington, D.C
The atmosphere was surreal in Washington, D.C. as controversy surrounding the elections for Speaker of the House took place. Through uncertainty and many empty offices, freedom quickly became the universal language spoken this past October. Liberland President, Vít Jedlička, Vice President Bogie Wozniak, Finance Minister Navid Seberin, Foreign Affairs Minister Tom Walls, Ambassador-At-Large Richard Holson III, and U.S. Representative Kathleen Alcorn gathered together to attend the 50th Anniversary of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). The multi-day conference included ALEC’s 50th Anniversary Gala held on 4 October 2023 within the stunning backdrop of the National Portrait Gallery. Long gowns flowed with well-informed conversations throughout each room. President Jedlicka quickly built new friendships with fellow young leaders, receiving invitations to visit and to testify on behalf of Liberland’s efforts during state legislative sessions. Speakers during the dinner included United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska) and Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears (Virginia), with talk radio personality Hugh Hewitt emceeing the event. US Senators, members of Congress, Governors, and state legislators were in attendance throughout the massive glass-covered courtyard. Past Speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich, was present as well.  ALEC prepared many highly informative and engaging daytime sessions with topics that included economics, geopolitics, education and government. Sessions were filled with key industry members as well as members of state legislative government from all over the United States. Insights into ALEC’s sessions may be found in ALEC’s publication of 50 Years of Trusted Policy Solutions.  ALEC has been a long supporter of Liberland’s efforts which began with past State Representative David Reis (Illinois). Mr. Reis served as a past board member of ALEC and was the first legislator to introduce a house resolution recognizing Liberland as a country. Mr. Reis immediately understood the importance of Liberland after meeting President Jedlička at the 2016 ALEC conference. Mr. Reis’ efforts for Liberland recognition are continued through other states. The Liberland delegation utilized this time to network heavily for legislative sponsorship in support of Liberland, using the original language drafted by Liberland U.S. Representative David Molineaux and Mr. Reis. Many states expressed favourable support and updates shall be provided as those bills are introduced.  The Liberland delegation spent additional time on Capitol Hill, meeting with key staff on issues specific to foreign relations and constructive efforts that may be made to protect the safety of our residents. It was during this time that forces in neighbouring Croatia increased their opposition to Liberland and its citizens through unauthorized invasions and surveillance, destroyed homes and personal property, and confiscation of personal property such as generators, communications equipment and bicycles.  The Liberland delegation is extremely grateful to Richard Hoslon III, who has championed and advocated for Liberland since its beginnings. Through Mr. Holson, Liberland has become a welcomed entity at ALEC. During the visit, ALEC CEO Lisa B. Nelson was a most gracious host to the delegation. Because of ALEC’s continued support as well as its steadfast mission that includes advocating for individual liberties, Ms. Nelson was awarded the Order of Merit 1st Class, which was presented to her by President Jedlička.
Croatia now calls Liberland a parastate: A step towards recognition
Croatia insists on calling Liberland in its official documents a “parastate”. The concept of Liberland being termed a "parastate" is intriguing, especially since the term incorporates the term "state," leading to the question of whether Croatia is indirectly recognizing Liberland as a type of state.  Let’s cite some examples: Document UP/I-216-04-23-01/1873 (expulsion of an EU national): “[Vít Jedlička] as the creator of the idea and the project of the parastatal entity [of Liberland]… . ”  (this formulation appears on three similar documents) Document: NK UP/I-216-04-23-04/192 (expulsion of a non-EU national): “The given area is claimed by a Czech citizen Vít Jedlička as the state of Liberland and the proponents of the parastatal entity…” (link not provided due to the document being about a third person, to protect their personal data) Document Administrative legal action  (against the aforementioned expulsion under .../1873) states that: "Gornja Siga, where the Free Republic of Liberland is located, is in no way part of the Republic of Croatia, a view also held by the defendant. Consequently, under such circumstances, the jurisdiction of the Republic of Croatia does not come into consideration for potentially sanctioning individuals found there, including the plaintiff." Hence, it is clear between both parties that the area of Liberland is not Croatia - because Liberland is a parastate. (this formulation repeats on many similar documents) However, this notion requires further scrutiny. The Oxford Dictionary defines "parastate" as a region aiming to be or claiming to be an independent state but lacking official recognition. Thus, Croatia's reference to Liberland as a parastate suggests recognition of its existence as a separate entity, albeit not as an officially recognised independent state. Academic studies have identified various regions as parastates. Irene Fernandez-Molina, in her work "Western Sahara as a Hybrid of a Parastate and a State-in-Exile: (Extra)territoriality and the Small Print of Sovereignty in a Context of Frozen Conflict",  referred to Western Sahara as a parastate. Western Sahara has limited control over its territory and it is mostly directed from refugee camps in Algeria. It however had an International Court of Justice opinion stating, although not directly, the right of its tribes to national self-determination. Kosovo is a region identified as a parastate in Mladen Mrdalj’s study “From Pararepublic to Parastate: International Leverage in Shaping Kosovo’s Secession”. The International Court of Justice's opinion significantly influenced Kosovo's parastate status, receiving notable international support, particularly from the United States. Eduardo Baldaro and Luca Rainieri, in their article "Azawad: a Parastate Between Nomads and Mujahidins?" discusses the distinctions between “secessionist” and “territorial” parastates and the connection between Azawad and Mali. Azawad is classified as a parastate due to its effective functioning as a real state. As we can see, the parastates in question are rather well-established entities. Several have received an opinion from the International Court of Justice confirming their existence. They also have their own legal system and exert a degree of control over a territory and the people who recognize them as their countries.  Liberland is different from other places called parastates, like Western Sahara or Kosovo, because it's not in a conflict or claiming old land. This is good because because people aren’t getting hurt, which is the greatest boon of all. It brings, however, a challenge because it might be harder to get attention. But it is mostly good and compatible with Liberland’s mission: to be the first state founded without a single shot being fired and a single person egregiously harmed. What does this all mean? In short, Croatia calling Liberland a parastate is a big deal.  Why? The term "Parastate" represents a notable acknowledgement by Croatia of Liberland's seriousness and legitimacy, far removed from being merely a "wannabe country" or "micronation." Liberland is a state in reality, but from Croatia’s point of view, they refuse to treat Liberland as a fully equal sovereign entity due to its present lack of international recognition. Still, this is important because it helps Liberland be taken more seriously in Croatia and elsewhere. Croatia, in a way, recognizes Liberland’s (proto-) statehood. Looking ahead, Liberland has some work to do. It needs to show the world it can act like a proper country, following international rules and making friends with other countries, securing their recognition.  Also, Liberland being a parastate is interesting for experts who study countries and how they start. It's not every day a new place tries to become a country, so people are watching to see what happens with Liberland. It might even change how we think about new countries in the future. Liberland should make further forays into academia to benefit from this situation. In conclusion, Croatia's recognition of Liberland as a parastate is a helpful step, whether it was intended to be that or not. It opens doors for Liberland to keep trying to become a recognized country and could change the way new countries come about in the world. We finish by quoting from the defence of Vít Jedlička as it was given during the process mentioned above - this is a good "mission statement" regarding the intention of the government of the Parastate of Liberland and its stance towards their closest and most important neighbour: "I believe that those responsible ... now understand that Liberland poses no threat to the Republic of Croatia; instead, it represents the greatest economic opportunity for Croatia since its establishment. I appreciate the acknowledgement of our existence, the recognition of our borders, travel documents, and security services. These actions are not extremist or incident-related. For instance, not wearing a helmet on an electric quad in the forest should not be classified as an incident or extremist activity against Croatia, among other similar non-issues. We propose that Croatian police refrain from applying misdemeanor law for minor offenses against us. Instead, I concur with the application of criminal law in Liberland, provided it does not involve our diplomatic staff, whose conduct should be addressed through diplomatic channels. Liberland is an independent state that fully acknowledges and respects Croatian institutions and laws within Croatia's territory. I pose no threat to Croatia's territorial integrity or its institutions. Incidents involving helmets are less disruptive than Croatian bureaucracy. Contrary to the accusations against me, there has been a proposal from your police for cooperation, suggesting we expedite border crossings by submitting photos and documents of individuals entering Liberland. This is not obstruction but collaboration. We have automated the entry processes required by Croatian police on our visa application and the website border.liberland.org. Furthermore, it is well understood from the Serbian Foreign Minister's statement, received via email in 2015, that Serbia does not claim Gornja Siga as its territory. Similarly, Croatia does not view Gornja Siga as its land, and for its success in future arbitration, it would be prudent not to claim this area, implying both countries renounce claims to it. Regarding the alleged threats of violence, I assert that we have never and will never resort to violence against Croatian citizens or police. This is in stark contrast to certain actions by Croatian police, as highlighted in Niko Omilana's video, viewed by over 8 million people on YouTube. Liberland is a neutral nation seeking peaceful and friendly relations with all countries."
Forest Bandits Strike Again: Cutting the Ropes Incident
Early on Thursday, 23 November, at about 07:00, settlers in Liberland faced a scary situation during a flood just before they were planning to go back to Liberty Island. Early in the morning, woken up by strange noises, they heard what sounded like a tractor. After a bit of confusion, the settlers left the boat to find the ropes of their houseboat "Swan" cut. As their axe was nowhere to be seen, they surmised this was done by that axe and by whoever had been on the tractor. To understand how dangerous this was, remember: The Danube River was flowing fast and was higher than normal. Everyone was on 'Swan,' a small houseboat. If the boat had been cut loose, it would have floated away on the strong river, out of control. Luckily, the settlers woke up, and their movement and sounds ended the incident. Whoever did it probably knew he was doing something very wrong: Damaging their boat on purpose. This could have hurt or even killed people. The person cutting didn't care about the danger he was causing. Thanks to the settlers’ quick actions, they only lost the axe, which the perpetrator took with him as he fled, and some tools for maintaining the fire pit. You can see the situation from the day of the incident on two video reports from the day here. This incident and other things that have happened make it seem like people from Hrvatske Šume, d.o.o., the state forestry company, are involved. For months, our settlers have been victimized by the group’s criminal activities: They've had their bikes and other things stolen, and once, their wooden houses were destroyed, and building materials were taken right from the hands of settlers who shouted that they owned them. Now, it looks like these forest bandits are becoming even more brazen, not merely content to damage property but putting people's lives in danger by cutting ropes. We know that Hrvatske Šume, d.o.o., has laid unfounded claims of jurisdiction over Liberland without any legal basis. It's important to recognize that a regulation issued by a ministry cannot unilaterally bind private individuals, nor can an exchange of diplomatic notes establish such authority.  These ongoing criminal activities in the area demonstrate a disregard for legal norms and procedures, and our legal teams are currently busy challenging all such claims at the court, see the Hringur Finger Case. We plan to report this to the Croatian authorities since the Forestry Services work in Croatia and should be stopped there. We'll keep you updated on what happens next.
The Case of Hringur’s Finger
On Tuesday, 14th November, an incident occurred in Liberland. Liberland, as you likely know, is a territory not recognized under Croatian jurisdiction. Over the past decades, the government of the Republic of Croatia has repeatedly and categorically denied that Gornja Siga (Liberland) is, or ever has been Croatia, and that for reasons of maintaining the political balance of powers with Serbia. The Croatian Border Police accused Hringur, a settler in Liberland, of a misdemeanour for an obviously trivial act – making a middle finger gesture at a camera hanging on a tree. Said camera had previously been identified by the Border Police as the property of the Croatian Forestry (Hrvatske Šume d.o.o.).  Apparently, a police officer of the Border Police saw the gesture on the camera and interpreted it as directed against the Border Police. This act was understood as vulgarity against an official institution (against the Border Police itself), leading to a charge under Article 17, paragraph 1 of Croatia's Law on Misdemeanours against Public Order and Peace: Those who belittle or insult state authorities, i.e. official persons, on the occasion of or in connection with the performance of their duties or their lawful orders, will be punished for the violation with a fine in the amount of 700.00 to 4000 euros or a prison sentence of up to 30 days. Let us make a few observations: The incident took place in Liberland, where the law of Croatia isn’t applicable There is no jurisdiction of the Border Police to prosecute; Hringur had no idea he was showing the middle finger at the police as he couldn’t know that the police would watch him through a Croatian Forestry-installed camera. This legal ambiguity intensified when Hringur refused a EUR 650 fine, leading to an expedited court session at the Municipal Court in Osijek on the day of the accusation. The short notice for the court session raised concerns about the ability to secure adequate legal representation and whether or not this was a deliberate attempt to deny such legal counsel.  Hringur asked for a Danish translator, which the court could not provide on such short notice. As a result, the court hearing was rescheduled for 22 November 2023 at 13:00.  In response to this unusual legal scenario, a peaceful gathering was organized to show solidarity with Hringur, support the rule of law in Croatia, and demonstrate the physical presence of Liberlanders and their intention to build their country.  Despite the previous written efforts of Hringur’s lawyers, who argued both the lack of police jurisdiction and the obvious absence of intention on Hringur’s part, since he had no idea he was insulting the Border Police, the court session started with the judge presenting the parties with a guilty verdict and this time, Hringur would have to pay EUR 3000.  The defence emphatically insisted that Liberland is not Croatia and is outside of Croatia’s jurisdiction. The witness for the prosecution countered by stating that an “agreement” between Serbia and Croatia creates this jurisdiction.  Hringur’s lawyer easily countered this: An exchange of diplomatic notas, nota bene one not readily available to the public, is not a source of binding legal norms upon private persons. There cannot be secret laws, nor can rights and obligations be created or modified except on the basis of a law, albeit possibly indirectly (law → regulation → judicial practice, for example).  The prosecution retorted that the original accusation doesn't mention any bilateral agreement and that the court simply finds the defendant guilty regardless, because "there is danger he will repeat the offence, mainly due to members of the so-called Liberland habitually committing various violations in [Gornja Siga]; in addition to the Croatian police, the State Inspectorate is also active." Jurisdiction holds paramount importance in law, serving as the foundation upon which all other legal frameworks are built. For it to be valid, it must be firmly rooted in established law, which is not the case here. The Prosecutor's approach, which casually overlooks the critical point of establishing jurisdiction, appears overly simplistic upon analysis. Furthermore, the prosecution shifts to an argument suggesting guilt by association, implying that because some Liberlanders may have committed violations, all are culpable. This logic is fundamentally flawed for two reasons: firstly, the acts of the other settlers are violations only if there is jurisdiction, but jurisdiction is precisely in doubt here; and secondly, it relies on the notion of collective guilt—essentially presuming guilt by mere association with a group. Liberland is neither a criminal organization nor an extremist group, making this line of reasoning untenable in a court that upholds the principles of the rule of law. As a bottom line, most of those "acts of violations" are misdemeanour indictments by a misdemeanour order, and all have been appealed against; this makes the defendant innocent until the court decides; therefore, technically speaking, there are not that many violations which have legal force, and the very core of the Prosecutor's argumentation is critically incorrect. The witnesses report that the court proceeded in an orderly manner. Hringur and Liberland are waiting until Monday for the final verdict. Liberland’s legal experts feel confident that even if that is “guilty”, there is sufficient legal basis for an appeal to overturn the verdict. The law is on our side. In the trivial and shallow reading of the law's text, our position's correctness might not be so obvious which leads to the current challenges. When experts become involved and genuinely examine the matters with in-depth knowledge and in good faith, Liberland’s side clearly prevails.  It seems plausible that Croatian officials might also realize to some extent that our position has substantial merit.  Otherwise, one finds it hard to explain why, out of 70 cases connected to Liberland, with 58 being directly related to activities within Liberland, there has been a noticeable delay in their processing, with little to no communication from the Court regarding their status. And why the authorities have chosen this particular “finger” case to conduct the process almost immediately. In any case, any such a process is an important milestone for Liberland. We are committed to approaching each case with thorough preparation and expertise. Meanwhile, it is essential for us to exercise patience as we await the opportunity to present our arguments in a Croatian judicial setting that possesses the requisite level of expertise to argue our position to its logical conclusion: the unobstructed establishment of Liberland.
Liberland's Exciting Partnership with Skychatters
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Liberland is proud to announce its partnership with Skychatters, a revolutionary app founded by Victor Musilek. This strategic alliance aims to strengthen the global Liberland community, providing unique benefits and opportunities for all its members. The founder of Skychatters, Victor Musilek, shares a compelling vision: to connect every Liberlander worldwide and facilitate meaningful interactions when they travel internationally.  Benefits for Liberlanders: Exclusive Invitations for e-Residents: Every Liberland e-resident will receive an invitation to join the Skychatters app, creating a dedicated space for Liberlanders to connect and share their experiences. Free Verified Profiles: All Liberlanders will enjoy complimentary verified profiles on Skychatters, enhancing their visibility and credibility within the app's community. Private Chat Group: Members can join a secure private chat group within the app, ensuring confidential and efficient communication among the Liberlander community. Free Verified "Company" Profile: Liberlanders who own or represent businesses can create a verified company profile at no cost, expanding their network and opportunities. Exclusive Discounts: Enjoy discounts on airfare and international insurance, making travel more accessible and cost-effective for the entire Liberlander community. Full Support: Skychatters commits to providing full support to all Liberlanders, ensuring a seamless experience within the app and maximizing the benefits of this innovative platform. Connecting Liberlanders across the Globe Skychatters is not just an app; it's a dynamic tool designed to unite Liberlanders globally. By offering a clear view of where fellow community members are traveling, the app encourages spontaneous meetups in airport lounges, on planes, and across the world. It's more than a travel companion; it's a catalyst for building stronger relationships within the Liberlander community. Acknowledging Key Contributors: This partnership wouldn't be possible without the dedication of Victor Musilek, the founder of Skychatters, and his co-founder, Jaroslav Krajci.    In conclusion, the Liberland-Skychatters partnership marks a significant step towards a more connected and empowered Liberlander community. As we embrace the opportunities that technology presents, we look forward to the exciting journeys and strengthened relationships that will unfold through this innovative collaboration. For more information and to join the Skychatters community, visit skychatters.com/liberland.
Liberland President Vit Jedlicka's visit to Argentina
Liberland's President Vit Jedlicka recently visited Buenos Aires, Argentina, during an important moment in the country's history. The visit coincided with the presidential selection, resulting in the victory of Javier Milei, a supporter of Liberland's principles. The trip was marked by a series of events, including a gathering with local supporters, a memorable pitching at the Labitconf conference, and an exploration of the vibrant city of Buenos Aires. Presidential Selection: Javier Milei's Victory The timing of President Jedlicka's visit was particularly noteworthy, as Argentina was in the midst of a presidential election. The election took a turn as Javier Milei, a supporter of the libertarian movement, emerged victorious. This shared ideology fosters hope for collaboration and mutual understanding between Liberland and Argentina, creating a bridge for libertarian values on a broader scale. Article: "Liberland Congratulates Milei on Argentina Win" Local Engagement: Meeting with Buenos Aires Supporters President Jedlicka took the opportunity to connect with local supporters in Buenos Aires. The gathering was a testament to the global reach and influence of Liberland's mission. Supporters, both new and longstanding, had the chance to engage with the President, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. The event not only strengthened bonds but also provided a platform for dialogue on the principles that unite Liberland and its supporters in Argentina. Labitconf Conference: President Jedlicka's speech  President Jedlicka's visit extended beyond political circles to the tech and blockchain community. The Liberland President was invited to speak at the Labitconf conference, a prominent event in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space. His speech highlighted the intersection of libertarian values and the innovative potential of blockchain technology. It was a moment to showcase Liberland's commitment to cutting-edge solutions and to share insights with a diverse audience eager to explore the possibilities of a decentralized future.
Liberland Congratulates Milei on Argentina Win
LIBERLAND, NOVEMBER 20 -- President Vit Jedlicka sent congratulations to Javier Milei after he won the third round of the Argentine presidential election. Milei is an economist, Deputy in the National Congress of Argentina, and prominent television commentator on issues of the day. He rose to fame with his sharp critiques of establishment politicians and socialist policies. Liberland sent congratulations to Javier Milei after winning the third round of the Argentine presidential election. Milei is an economist, Deputy in the National Congress of Argentina, and prominent television commentator. He rose to fame with his sharp critiques of establishment politicians and socialist policies.  After suffering decades of economic mismanagement and severe inflation, Argentine voters made a decisive move to change the status quo with 55.8% of voters choosing Milei. This historic win indicates a sea change in Argentine politics, and will surely have a ripple effect, not only in Latin America, but in other countries.  Liberland hopes for ties with incoming administration “The pendulum of liberty is swinging, so I want to send big congratulations to the Argentinian people. They took a great step in choosing Javier Milei,” said Liberland President Vit Jedlicka. “And congratulations to Javier Milei. I’m looking for long-lasting and great relations between our two countries.” Link to congratulations video “I am eager to develop diplomatic relations between Liberland and Argentina,” said Liberland Foreign Minister Thomas Walls. “We are truly delighted with the results of the election. You know we look forward to the day when we inaugurate the Argentine Embassy in Liberland.” Milei has publicly mentioned and described Liberland several times. In a recent radio interview, Milei told the host that “there is already a country based on the libertarian model and it is called Liberland. Taxes are zero and you only participate in political life in Liberland if you make voluntary contributions. How does that grab you?” In 2019, Milei appeared in costume at a cosplay convention as "General AnCap" in a mask and yellow-and-black superhero outfit, stating "I come from Liberland... a land of seven square kilometers between Croatia and Serbia. A country where you don’t pay taxes, a country where we defend individual freedom, and where we believe in the individual. And there is no place for collectivist sons of bitches who want to screw up our lives." Link to some of Javier Milei's mentions of Liberland Recently, the Liberland delegation met in Buenos Aires with Milei’s political party, the Partido Libertario. They affirmed their shared commitment to the principles of liberty and to cooperate in several areas, including international relations.
Reflections on the Network State Conference
The Network State Conference held in Amsterdam on October 30 was a remarkable gathering of individuals who share a common vision for the future. Attended by our Justice Minister, Michal Ptáčník, the conference provided a unique platform for innovators, thought leaders, and pioneers to come together and delve into the concept of the network state. The diverse lineup of speakers, including Glenn Greenwald, Vitalik Buterin, and others, fostered an environment where ideas flowed seamlessly, transcending traditional boundaries. The best part? Everyone there was super excited about creating a future where we don't just follow the same old rules. Instead, we want to build new communities and systems based on Internet values. The conference wasn't just a place to learn; it was like a big brainstorming session where everyone shared their ideas. Connecting with people who think alike at the Network State Conference felt like taking a big step toward making cool things happen in the future.
Liberland Responds to Croatian Foreign Ministry
Because of the harsh treatment of Liberlanders by the Croatian authorities, Liberland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked Liberlanders to write letters of protest to Croatian embassies worldwide. The campaign was successful and elicited a response to Liberlanders from the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs (MVEP) via their respective embassies, which we will reprint below and respond to point-by-point. We appreciate that the Croatian Foreign Ministry took the time to respond - clearly, we disagree with what they write and the arguments they present. Nonetheless, it is the beginning of dialogue between Liberland and Croatia. Since August 6, access to Liberland has been possible, leaving from the towns of Batina or Zmajevac in Croatia. Liberlanders first set up a base camp at Jefferson Square. They started restoring the old hunting lodge there and erected three buildings at Mateos Marina. On September 21 and 22, Croatian authorities - both police and employees of the state forestry company - entered Gornja Siga (Liberland) from Croatia and destroyed the Liberland settlement, demolishing the buildings and taking the property, equipment, bicycles and food supplies of the settlers.  The settlers are still on the ground at the marina as well as at a new settlement on Liberty Island, and we have been steadily rebuilding under the circumstances.  In addition to the attack on the settlement and theft of our property, Croatian Border Police as well as local police have been constantly harassing visitors to the area, both inside and outside of Liberland. While many individual officers have acted professionally and civilly, their actions as a whole - following orders from the top - have created a very hostile environment for travelers and tourists, particularly for those visitors from outside the EU or Schengen Zone. They have even stopped people from riding bicycles on an EU-funded designated bike path and later stole their locked bicycles. In protest of this treatment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked Liberlanders to write letters to Croatian embassies worldwide. The campaign was successful and elicited a response to Liberlanders from the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs (MVEP) via their respective embassies, which we will reprint below and respond to point-by-point. We appreciate that the Croatian Foreign Ministry took the time to respond - clearly, we disagree with what they write and the arguments they present. Nonetheless, it is the beginning of dialogue. Croatian Foreign Ministry’s response to letters of protest: In response, we wish to draw your attention to the fact that the present case involves Croatian police officers’ legitimate treatment of foreign nationals who were not only staying in Croatia illegally, but also disrupting its legal and public order. The so-called Liberland is not and cannot become a subject of international law. It is a fictitious project of a handful of adventurers who, knowingly violating the legislation of the Republic of Croatia and completely contrary to international law, have ever since 2015 been trying to falsely portray the area along the right bank of the Danube River as no man's land (terra nullius), claiming that as such it can be subject to possession or occupation by the so-called Liberland. Since the dissolution of the former SFRY, the land areas located on the left and right sides of the Danube River belong either to the Republic of Croatia or the Republic of Serbia, in accordance with international law and as confirmed by the Badinter Commission. Due to the area’s specific history and geographic features including the meandering course of the Danube River, it remains for the two neighbouring countries to reach a final decision on the precise course of the border line. Pursuant to the international law, this can under no circumstances be interpreted as that the area can be considered no-man's land, let alone be subject of occupation by any third party. In conclusion, we stress that access to the area is not prohibited. Anybody who wishes to visit areas in the immediate vicinity of the border between Croatia and Serbia, which are in possession and under the surveillance of competent Croatian authorities, must abide the laws of the Republic of Croatia and EU legislation. First and foremost, this includes provisions governing border crossings and movement in the proximity of the state border, which is now also the external border of the EU and Schengen area. Embassy of the Republic of Croatia Our response: “In response, we wish to draw your attention to the fact that the present case involves Croatian police officers’ legitimate treatment of foreign nationals who were not only staying in Croatia illegally, but also disrupting its legal and public order.” This is wholly incorrect. Liberland visitors do not come to Croatia illegally. They enter Croatia legally by air, at land border crossings and by vessels on the Danube. They then enter Gornja Siga/Liberland under supervision of personnel of the Croatian Border Police. Since Croatia’s accession to the Schengen Zone, there have been many hundreds such entries and exits, fully supervised, and not once have we been accused of illegally crossing the border.  We also strongly disagree with the libelous assertion that the people of Liberland supposedly disrupt the legal and public order of Croatia. To the contrary, they are making friends, spending money, buying supplies, food and equipment from Croatian stores in the area, using Croatian services, hotels and BnBs and much more. Liberlanders are entirely peaceful.  If there exists any disruption to public order, it is attributable to the actions of the Border Police officers who impose extrajudicial punishments on local Croatian citizens and their families when they associate with us, thereby endangering their personal safety and economic well-being (we know of many such cases!). Croatian nationals - including many young people -  who are curious about Liberland are also harassed and intimidated by the police.  “The so-called Liberland is not and cannot become a subject of international law. It is a fictitious project of a handful of adventurers who, knowingly violating the legislation of the Republic of Croatia and completely contrary to international law, have ever since 2015 been trying to falsely portray the area along the right bank of the Danube River as no man's land (terra nullius), claiming that as such it can be subject to possession or occupation by the so-called Liberland.” It is our position that Liberland is a subject of international law and possesses international legal personhood. It has a government, a population, a defined territory and the capacity to conduct relations with other governments. Liberland is certainly not fictitious; otherwise Croatia would not be spending the considerable resources it does to complicate the matter. In official documents, Croatian authorities have referred to Liberland as a “parastate,” which is defined as "institution or body which takes on some of the roles of civil government." We seem to be getting somewhere! However, the debate over Liberland's status as a full-fledged subject of public international law or about its recognition by Croatia detracts from the central concern: whether Liberland, as a collective of individuals, as a concept, as a political movement, and as a set of objectives, does not violate Croatian or international law and conducts itself ethically. This is the paramount question. In adherence to the principle of "presumed innocent until proven guilty," we maintain that Liberland constitutes a lawful and legitimate assembly of individuals, predominantly composed of EU, EEA, US and British Commonwealth citizens in terms of visitors to the territory. Nonetheless, the treatment we receive is unjustifiably discriminatory. A consistent pattern of persecution is evident, as authorities illegitimately and often illegally shut down our legal avenues of operation, pushing us towards a gray area of semi-legality, only to then accuse us of operating outside the law. Such systematic defamation is an all too common tactic of oppression. Again, no legislation is being violated by the people of Liberland, nor do they seek to violate any Croatian laws, and we object to their characterization thus. Police reprisals against us are wholly unjustified. “Since the dissolution of the former SFRY, the land areas located on the left and right sides of the Danube River belong either to the Republic of Croatia or the Republic of Serbia, in accordance with international law and as confirmed by the Badinter Commission. Due to the area’s specific history and geographic features including the meandering course of the Danube River, it remains for the two neighbouring countries to reach a final decision on the precise course of the border line. Pursuant to the international law, this can under no circumstances be interpreted as that the area can be considered no-man's land, let alone be subject of occupation by any third party.” We acknowledge that that is the official Croatian position, but we ask you to consider the following: The territory of Gornja Siga was never part of Croatia and does not exist on any Croatian maps; it has essentially been abandoned since the breakup of the former SFRY (Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia) - over 25 years and essentially became bona vacantia. Serbia has issued a quitclaim to the land and has clearly stated that the formation of the new state does not infringe upon their territory. Croatia is not the continuation state of the former SFRY and has no feasible claim on territory that exists outside of its borders or on territory that existed outside of its borders as a federal unit during the time of the SFRY.  Perhaps the reason Croatian authorities are devoting such vast resources to complicate the matter is that they realize the Liberland claim - which has been public since April 13, 2015 - does have merit, and is a tenable, defendable claim in international law.  “In conclusion, we stress that access to the area is not prohibited. Anybody who wishes to visit areas in the immediate vicinity of the border between Croatia and Serbia, which are in possession and under the surveillance of competent Croatian authorities, must abide the laws of the Republic of Croatia and EU legislation. First and foremost, this includes provisions governing border crossings and movement in the proximity of the state border, which is now also the external border of the EU and Schengen area.” Liberland recognizes and supports the right and duty of Croatia to protect its borders. We also understand the border is a sensitive area and would like to cooperate with Croatian authorities in ensuring there is no illegal entry by anyone. Yes, people can visit the area but only if they are EU or Schengen Zone nationals. Nationals of the US, UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and others - countries which are allied with and provide considerable support to Croatia - are discriminated against and essentially treated as guilty until proven innocent by Croatian officials. This treatment is also given to Serbian nationals, which is especially ironic as Croatia considers Gornja Siga to still be Serbian territory.  Currently these individuals, who are not coming to Croatia illegally, are apprehended by Croatian police, taken to the police station at Duboševica and given a 30 or 90 day ban from Croatia and in some cases the EU. Some are put on a travel blacklist. They are typically given a paper that states they have no legitimate reasons for entering Croatia. The reasons they do state are consistently ignored. They are then “assumed” to be coming to commit such “misdemeanors” as “lighting fires and illegal camping”. This is predictive punishment, punishing people based on assumptions of what they might do in the future. Solely based on this and their association with Liberland, these individuals are given travel bans from entering or staying in Croatia. These prior-restraint bans are issued by the police and not by any court or judge. We can only speculate that Croatia is doing so because non-EU, non-Schengen nationals do not have the same recourse through European institutions and are therefore easy targets to pick off.  These people could be bringing a huge amount of money into the Croatian economy, yet they are having their travel documents defaced with a ban sticker and their right to travel compromised just for wanting to visit the area.  We of course acknowledge the prerogative of the Croatian government to recognize or not recognize an entity as a state under international law. However, Croatia would benefit greatly from allowing Liberland to operate as an independent zone which can rejuvenate an economically moribund area -- and in which Croatian people can also live, work and visit in peace.  Leaders on the Croatian side who make moves toward a workable solution will be doing the Croatian people - and especially the communities of beautiful Osijek-Baranja County - a huge service. Let's work together. Live and let live.
Holistic Wellness and Innovation at the Liberland Longevity Conference
The Liberland diaspora village in Ark, Serbia is set to host the Liberland Longevity Conference from November 17 to 19, 2023. This assembly aims to create a platform for insightful discussions on a broad spectrum of wellness, medicine, diet, and lifestyle topics. The event is structured to foster a dialogue around spa and wellness tourism in the Liberland region, shedding light on potential investment opportunities. It also seeks to engage attendees in an exploration of holistic wellness approaches and modern medical advancements, presenting a comprehensive view of health-centric topics. The medical segment of the conference is designed to delve into a balanced discourse between traditional and modern approaches to health. The nutrition sphere will present insights into various dietary regimes, aiming to enlighten attendees on personalized pathways to nourishment. The conference aspires to create a conducive environment for discussions on detoxification, dietary regimes, and a balanced approach to medicine. The diverse agenda of the conference also encompasses engaging discussions on mental health, exercise regimes, aesthetics, and investment opportunities within the Liberland region. The Liberland Longevity Conference is structured to offer a glimpse into upcoming wellness projects like the Liberland Hotel & Spa and the Adventure Park, unveiling potential investment opportunities. Through moderated discussions and interactive sessions, the event aims to provide a holistic view of wellness, underlining the promising wellness infrastructure blossoming in this part of Europe. The tickets for both online and offline attendance are available at https://market.ll.land/product-category/government-services For sponsorship and speaking opportunities, contact the conference management at [email protected]
Martial Arts League Match on Liberty Island
Get ready to kickstart your weekend with a bang! Liberland's Martial Arts League invites you to Liberty Island this Saturday at 3 PM for this event. Upcoming events: But the excitement doesn't stop there! We're introducing a series of weekend events in Liberland, each celebrating freedom in its unique way. From cultural festivals to music extravaganzas, there's something for everyone. Join us in celebrating freedom and martial arts this Saturday on Liberty Island, and keep an eye out for more exciting events in the weeks to come.
President Vit Jedlicka of Liberland to Attend Prestigious Award Ceremony at British Parliament
The Free Republic of Liberland is delighted to announce that President Vit Jedlicka will be traveling to London to attend the esteemed India Today & International Book of Honour Awards at the British Parliament. This invitation-only event, scheduled for tomorrow, underscores the growing recognition and international rapport of Liberland. During this distinguished gathering, President Jedlicka will engage with Dr. Sandeep Marwah, the celebrated Guest of Honour. It's noteworthy that the two luminaries recently collaborated in New Delhi to inaugurate the Indo-Liberland Film Forum. Dr. Marwah, in recognition of his contributions and the strengthening of ties between India and Liberland, was honored with the title of Liberland Honorary Citizen during that visit. This visit to London signifies a potential watershed moment in fostering stronger diplomatic relations and broadening Liberland's global network. "Being invited to such a revered event in the British Parliament's House of Lords and the opportunity to connect with fellow Liberlanders and dignitaries is truly an honor," expressed President Jedlicka.
Liberland Establishes Direct Ties to Liberia
Liberland is proud to extend its relations with the country of Liberia. Our official representative, George Kingsley, has been actively promoting and representing Liberland since at least 2017, taking care of Liberland’s interests in Liberia as well as onboarding new e-residents. George has also fostered relations with Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia. Liberland Expands Ties with Liberia Ministry of Foreign Affairs Liberland is proud to extend its relations with the country of Liberia. Our official representative, George Kingsley, has been actively promoting and representing Liberland since at least 2017, taking care of Liberland’s interests in Liberia as well as onboarding new e-residents. George has also fostered relations with Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia.  In addition, Liberland representative in the United Arab Emirates and seasteading pioneer Samuele Landi, is Liberia’s Consul General to the UAE. 2023 has seen cooperation between Liberland and Liberia taken to the next level.  Earlier this year, we initiated the exchange of official correspondence with Liberian Minister of State, Trokon Kpiu, regarding the provision of pioneering blockchain technology to monitor election results. The proposal envisions setting up state-of-the-art transparent blockchain solution with regards to the collection of votes for Presidential and legislative elections with real-time reporting of the results.  In June, Representative Kingsley officiated the presentation of several new e-residency cards to new Liberland e-residents. More recently, George organized several letters of protest to Croatian diplomatic missions with regards to Croatia’s treatment of Liberland settlers as well as their treatment of non-Schengen, non-EU citizens in the area.  Bishop Dr. James G. Smith has also been instrumental in administering the Liberland community there, which numbers over 140 at press time. For his services, Bishop Smith has been awarded with the honorary position of President of the Liberland Community in Liberia.   “I’m very proud of the work with our Secretary of State and Representative Kingsley on building stronger relationships between our two nations,” says Thomas Walls, Liberland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. “George has been an enthusiastic contributor to our efforts for a long time now.” The Republic of Liberia, a west African nation founded by free-born and freed African-Americans as well as Afro-Caribbeans, declared its independence in 1847.
Liberland Celebrates First Wedding on Liberty Island
Liberland marked a significant milestone this past Saturday with its very first official wedding ceremony. The event saw Anna and Christian, two of Liberland's citizens, exchanging vows against the scenic backdrop of Liberty Island. Their union not only represented their personal commitment to each other but also symbolized the growing and vibrant community spirit within Liberland. This event has garnered significant attention, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry that Liberland is weaving as it grows. We invite members of the press and the public to view the beautifully captured moments from this wedding. The ceremony serves as a reminder of the personal and collective milestones the nation is achieving. As we congratulate Anna and Christian on their special day, we look forward to many more such celebrations that highlight the essence and spirit of Liberland. Watch the video from the celebration: https://youtu.be/GqbXUi7ahOk (The used image is to illustrate the atmosphere. We encourage you to watch the video on the Liberland YouTube channel.)
President Vít Jedlička to Receive Gusi Peace Prize
President Vít Jedlička of the Free Republic of Liberland is being honored with the highly regarded Gusi Peace Prize. It is presented by the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation, an institution renowned as one of Asia's foremost awarding bodies and among the leading entities of its kind. The Gusi Peace Prize is not just an ordinary award; it stands as a symbol of human achievement, ideals and values. President Jedlička's recognition by the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation underscores his outstanding contribution to these goals. What makes this achievement all the more remarkable is that President Jedlička will be personally attending the official award ceremony in Manila, Philippines. This event is a momentous occasion, and it emphasizes his dedication to the causes of liberty and global peace. The award ceremony also signals a recognition of President Jedlička's tireless efforts. The Gusi Peace Prize Foundation, established in 2002, has consistently celebrated individuals who have made an indelible impact on society by advancing peaceful and humanitarian ideals. Its mission is to inspire and motivate others to bring about positive change on a global scale. President Jedlička's journey is one that resonates deeply with these values. The Free Republic of Liberland, founded in April 2015 under his leadership, has emerged as a symbol of hope, a beacon that champions minimal government intervention, individual freedoms and voluntary coexistence. The Gusi Peace Prize acknowledges President Jedlička's relentless advocacy for individual rights, freedom, and peaceful diplomacy on the international stage. His work has garnered worldwide attention, placing not just Liberland but the very ideals of liberty in the global spotlight. It reflects commitment to innovative solutions to complex global challenges. As we anticipate the official ceremony, we also look forward to celebrating this occasion and reflecting on the collective effort of those fellow travelers committed to making the world a more peaceful and just place.
Liberland Trade Office in Belgrade Launched
On Monday, October 23rd, Liberland launched its representative office at Savski Kej on the beautiful riverfront of Belgrade, Serbia.The event was attended by roughly 100 Liberlanders, diplomats, entrepreneurs and new friends curious about our growing country. One of Liberland’s goals is to serve as a free trade hub interconnected with the rest of the world. Liberland Trade Office in Belgrade Launched On Monday, October 23rd, Liberland launched its representative office at Savski Kej on the beautiful riverfront of Belgrade, Serbia. In conjunction with Adventure Hub Serbia, Liberland will now have a steady presence in the capital of Serbia.  The event was attended by roughly 100 Liberlanders, diplomats, entrepreneurs and new friends curious about our growing country. Guests enjoyed fine food and drinks by local caterers, presentations by Liberland officials and a rocking performance by Belgrade party band Perpetuum Mobile.  “We have already been bringing economic stimulus to Serbia in many sectors. From the maritime industry to tourism and blockchain, our office in Belgrade will help us connect us to these and other important sectors, and even help us expand our cultural and governmental ties,” says Thomas Walls, Liberland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. “And this space is well-suited for meetings, events and some really great networking.” Alatz Herrero, a Spanish national and resident of Serbia, said “The great human group that I met yesterday is really motivating. I foresee a great future for our Republic. I am committed in order to contribute to the evolution of the country. I'm all in!” The Liberland Hotel project designed by Studio Bianchi Architettura of Rome, Italy was also presented by Sergio Bianchi, a longtime friend of Liberland and highly accomplished architect. One of Liberland’s goals is to serve as a free trade hub interconnected with the rest of the world. Liberland delegations have led dialogue in diverse places such as the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, UAE and India looking to bring business to the region. “There are many advantages to doing so here in Serbia and there are huge opportunities due to the access to so many different markets,” says Walls.  Estimates show a significant positive spillover effects that Liberland as a high economic freedom zone would have on economies of both Serbia and Croatia. The presence of Liberland as a high economic freedom area would lead to a increase in exports of both countries and increase in investments boosting the long term growth rate for Serbia as well as Croatia. Marko Radosevic of Belgrade remarked: "Since 2016 when I approached Liberland as a sympathizer, until now, so much progress has happened in adoption of Liberland values. Throughout the years, across Serbia and Belgrade we managed to summon many meet-ups. I am thrilled beyond expectations to be a part of the Belgrade Liberland crew that is finally able to witness and manage such a big leap in the form of official FTZ hub, where we can offer all vital info regarding any aspect of business, networking and even coworking, with highlight on Liberland projects in the capital of Serbia and beyond" Liberland’s Belgrade office is already being used to welcome a high-level delegation from the United Arab Emirates visiting Liberland the following weekend.  Stay tuned for future events! Liberland Trade Office in Belgrade Adventure Hub Riverboat Savski Kej bb, Blok 70 Belgrade, Serbia Photos by Nadir Price
Resilient Liberland Settlers Forge Ahead on Liberty Island with New House
The enduring spirit of perseverance and innovation defines the community of Liberland. Following adversities on the mainland, where earlier structures were dismantled by the Croatian police as detailed in a distressing account, Liberland settlers charted a new course towards Liberty Island. The painful past has fueled a determined quest for a sustainable, sovereign homestead, rather than deterring the indomitable spirit of the settlers. The relocation to Liberty Island signifies more than just a geographical shift; it embodies the resolve of Liberland's community. Amidst the backdrop of pristine sandy beaches, a new emblem of hope and sustainability has emerged — a house built from none other than simple sandbags. This eco-friendly structure perfectly reflects our adaptability. It embodies the ethos of innovative living harmoniously intertwined with nature that Liberland staunchly advocates. The inviting ambiance of Liberty Island extends a warm invitation to new settlers, promoting a collaborative spirit and a shared vision of sustainable living. The journey from the mainland to Liberty Island epitomizes a narrative of endurance, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. Through each sandbag stacked, the Liberland community is building a legacy of resilience, beckoning kindred spirits to join in weaving a tale of sustainable and sovereign living.
Join us at Liberland Longevity Conference in November: Crafting the Future, Bridging Nations
The upcoming Liberland Longevity Conference 2023, nestled in the peaceful Liberland Ark Village in Serbia from November 17-19, is a three-day quest into sustainable living and longevity. It commences with an exploration of Liberland’s economic scaffold, spotlighting the merits and dollars ecosystem. Attendees will also delve into the luxurious ambiance of the Liberland Hotel and Spa, discovering its role in promoting wellness and longevity. The adventure unfolds further with a glimpse into Liberland's Adventure Park, a haven for thrill-seekers, and an epitome of sustainable recreation. The conference also highlights Liberland’s power plant and recycling facility, marking strides towards energy self-sufficiency and environmental sustainability. Beyond Liberland, the charm of the Golf Resort Zmajevac in Croatia unveils, showcasing leisure and cross-border camaraderie. Lastly, the conference unveils the innovative living solutions in Liberland ARK Village in Serbia and the modern housing developments in Liberland. These housing paradigms exemplify the nation’s commitment to sustainable, community-centric living. The Liberland Longevity Conference 2023 beckons those fervent about shaping a sustainable narrative for Liberland and its neighboring realms, offering a platform for meaningful dialogues towards a sustainable and long-lived society.
Historic Moment: The First Wedding in Liberland!
Liberland is set to witness a monumental event that will be etched in its history books. As the nation continues to grow and flourish, it's not just the political and economic milestones that make headlines, but also the personal and heartfelt moments that resonate with its settlers. This October, we are thrilled to announce the first-ever wedding to take place on Liberland soil. Anna Christine Laljenroth Morstad and Niels Christian Ditleff have chosen Liberty Island as the backdrop to their union, symbolizing the values and spirit of freedom that Liberland stands for. The wedding, scheduled for Saturday, October 28th at 15:00, is more than just a celebration of love; it's a testament to the vibrant community and culture that is taking root in our young nation. As Anna and Niels exchange their vows, they will also be setting a precedent for many more joyous occasions to come. The entire nation is invited to join in this celebration, not just as spectators but as an extended family, coming together to shower the couple with love, blessings, and best wishes. Let's mark this day as a reminder of the beautiful tapestry of life that we are weaving together in Liberland.
Liberland Networks in Dubai, Eyes Collaboration with Malaysian Tech Sector
In the dynamic realm of international relations and economic partnerships, the Liberland team is always on the move, ensuring its presence at pivotal global events that promise collaboration and mutual growth. Recently, this commitment took our representatives to the bustling city of Dubai, UAE. Here, they attended a series of networking events, with a notable emphasis on the Malaysia Investors Networking event, a significant initiative by MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation). MDEC, a government-owned institution, plays a crucial role in driving Malaysia's digital transformation. With its primary mission being to attract global tech investments into Malaysian tech companies, MDEC is at the heart of Malaysia's burgeoning digital economy. The event in Dubai served as a platform for investors, tech aficionados, and nation representatives to converge, explore synergies, and lay the groundwork for potential collaborations. For the Liberland team, this wasn't just an opportunity to gain insights into Malaysia's tech landscape but also a chance to introduce and spread awareness about Liberland's vision and aspirations. The discussions were insightful, touching upon the future of tech, investment avenues, and the vast potential for bilateral collaborations between Liberland and Malaysia. With the interactions at the event, there's a palpable sense of anticipation and optimism for what the future holds. We are genuinely excited about the prospects of a robust collaboration with Malaysia, especially in the tech sector. As the global landscape continues to evolve, the importance of such engagements becomes even more pronounced. With hope and determination, the Liberland team is geared up for more such fruitful collaborations in the days to come.
President Vít Jedlička Addresses "Liberty in Our Lifetime" Conference in Prague
The "Liberty in Our Lifetime" conference, held recently in Prague, saw a diverse range of speakers discussing the ideals of freedom and liberty. Among them was Liberland's own President, Vít Jedlička, who took the stage to provide a detailed update on the nation's latest endeavours. He touched upon the significant settlement progress that Liberland has achieved and delved into the diplomatic strides made through visits to India, Georgia, and Washington DC. Attendees of the conference were given a unique insight into the workings and future aspirations of Liberland. President Jedlička's presentation not only highlighted the nation's achievements but also emphasized the importance of international collaboration and understanding. As the conference came to a close, many were left reflecting on the President's words, with some even suggesting potential countries for future diplomatic engagements. The event served as a reminder of Liberland's commitment to its vision and the continuous efforts to make it a reality.
Liberland Opens Trade Office in Belgrade
: “Liberland has already been bringing economic activity to Serbia in several sectors, including the maritime industry, tourism and blockchain technology. An office in Belgrade will be very helpful to connect us to these and other important sectors, and this space is well-suited for meetings and events,” says Thomas Walls, Liberland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. As Liberland’s presence and significance grow, it is crucial that it has formal representation in key places. To that end, Liberland is launching a representative office at Savski Kej on the riverfront in Belgrade, Serbia. This is a place where people can find out more about Liberland and meet its personnel. The office launch is scheduled for Monday, October 23rd. “Our project has already been bringing economic activity to Serbia in several sectors, including the maritime industry, tourism and blockchain technology. An office in Belgrade will be very helpful to connect us to these and other important sectors, and this space is well-suited for meetings and events,” says Thomas Walls, Liberland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. “Our situation is similar to that of Taiwan, which operates trade and cultural offices all around the world, in lieu of actual formal embassies. The message here is that we’re open for business.” This new representation is in line with Liberland’s goal of being a free trade hub interconnected with the rest of the world. In the last two years, Liberland delegations have led dialogue in diverse places such as the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, UAE and India looking to bring business to the region, especially the Vojvodina region. “We are also very interested in Serbia’s Free Trade Zone program and are inviting investors and businesses in all industries to consider partnering with us. There are many advantages to doing so here in Serbia and there are huge opportunities due to the access to so many different markets.” In addition to the topic of Free Trade Zones, there will be presentations on economic studies on how Liberland can contribute to the GDP of neighboring countries, blockchain and cryptocurrency as well as the Liberland Hotel project designed by Studio Bianchi Architettura of Rome, Italy.  Liberland Trade Office in Belgrade Adventure Hub Riverboat Savski Kej bb, Blok 70 Belgrade, Serbia
Liberland Bike Robbery
On Tuesday, October 17, at approximately 10:30 CET, in the full light of day, a dramatic incident unfolded that has left the community of Marina Mateos, Liberland's pioneering settlement, both shocked and outraged. In the Marina, five bicycles stood parked— legally positioned and owned by Mr. Mathias, a respected local settler. Far from being abandoned, these bicycles were not just personal property; they were essential tools of daily life in the settlement. Mr Mathias had plans to use one that very day and to lend the others to fellow settlers. Enter a group of individuals whose actions would soon belie any semblance of lawfulness. These men, bearing a striking resemblance to employees of Hrvatske Šume d.o.o., a state-run enterprise, seemed determined to seize the bicycles by any means necessary. They committed an act of theft and, worse, robbery. We delved into the Law on Forests, which ostensibly governs the activities of Hrvatske Šume d.o.o., and found absolutely no legal basis that would permit such brazen acts of theft in a forest setting. The question then arises: What could possibly justify this blatant disregard for personal property and the rule of law? The forest robbers' audacity was only heightened by the presence of other men who appeared to be Croatian Border Police. As Mr. Mathias and his friends called out for assistance, the men in dark blue uniforms remained eerily silent, offering no intervention as the group, armed with a lorry, advanced toward the bicycles and a defiant Mr Mathias. What transpired next is captured in the following video that is going viral on YouTube and other media. We invite you to watch this eye-opening footage and join the conversation about this unsettling event. Please help us spread the video showing to the world who the robbers are, and help justice be served! In response to the incident, Liberland is taking a dual approach to justice that underscores our commitment to the rule of law and property rights. Firstly, we are reporting the incident to the Croatian police, as the stolen bicycles were taken into Croatian territory. This is mainly aimed at recovering the stolen property. Concurrently, we are initiating proceedings within Liberland's own judicial system, which is designed to uphold the principles of freedom and fairness that are the bedrock of our emerging nation. Those found guilty of infringing upon others' property rights will face penalties, including the forfeiture of Liberland Merits, our national cryptocurrency. We have successfully established the identities of some of the individuals involved in the robbery and will be issuing them summons to appear before the Liberland court.
Why Liberland is Europe's Newest Sovereign Nation: A Closer Look at the Emerging Country
While less and less mainstream media often categorizes Liberland differently, most often as a micronation, Wikipedia still endorses it. However, when it comes to Liberland, this term clearly does not do justice to the ambitions and capabilities of this emerging entity. Let us examine some of the key differences that make Liberland far more than a mere micronation. Recognition by Croatia as a Parastate The land on which Liberland is situated, known as Gornja Siga, has been a subject of dispute between Croatia and Serbia. Both nations have disavowed ownership, leaving the land in a state of legal limbo. According to international law, land abandoned for more than twenty years reverts to state ownership. However, before 2015, no state claimed it. Liberland's establishment in 2015, therefore, presents a unique case: a new entity claiming a long-abandoned territory. In a recent incident that saw Liberland's President Vít Jedlička and two other settlers detained by Croatian authorities, Liberland was described by the term "parastate". Travel documents were discussed, and even the territory of Gornja Siga was specifically mentioned as separate from Croatia. These elements, while part of a legal struggle, also serve as indirect acknowledgements of Liberland's state-like attributes. You can read the translation of the original document in the attachment below.  What is a “Parastate?” A region that seeks or claims but does not have the status of a recognized independent state. Being a region means that there is a clearly defined territory. A parastate is not the same as a micronation; it presumes the working of a state or at least of some of its functions. It may lack recognition, but being called a parastate is itself a form of recognition.  How important is recognition for statehood anyway? Criteria of Statehood Important, but not supremely so. Statehood doesn't rest on recognition alone; rather, it is often defined by certain objective criteria that an entity must fulfil to qualify as a state. One of the most widely accepted frameworks for defining statehood is the modern declarative theory of recognition. According to this theory, recognition presents a mere declaration of the facts of statehood. The elements of statehood are often deemed declared by the Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States. Adopted in 1933, the Montevideo Convention sets forth clear criteria that an entity must meet to be considered a state.  The Montevideo Convention was a significant milestone in international law, providing a standardized set of guidelines for what constitutes a state. It was signed by 20 countries at the Seventh International Conference of American States in Montevideo, Uruguay, and has since been cited in numerous international legal cases and discussions. The Convention's criteria for statehood have been broadly accepted beyond the Americas and are often referenced in debates and disputes over state recognition globally. We believe that this approach allows for a more objective assessment of statehood, reducing the influence of political biases and international relations on the determination of what constitutes a state. We will now examine Liberland in the light of the Montevideo Convention. Montevideo Criteria Defined Territory Unlike many micronations, Liberland has a physical territory adjacent to Croatia. This is not a fictional or virtual space but a real piece of land where the government aims to exercise its sovereignty. Importantly, Liberland's presence is not a point of contention with its Serbian neighbours, which adds a layer of geopolitical stability to its territorial claims. Effective Governance Liberland is not just a concept or a community; it has an effective government that works diligently to meet the criteria for international statehood. This includes a legal framework designed to be internationally compliant, as well as efforts to prevent any form of criminal activity within its jurisdiction. The government is actively involved in diplomatic talks and international relations, aiming to gain recognition as a sovereign state. International Agreements: A Step Towards Recognition One of the most telling signs of a functioning state is its ability to enter into and fulfil international agreements. Liberland has shown its capability in this regard, engaging in various forms of diplomacy and international cooperation. We can mention the memoranda of understanding with Malawi or Ghana, the memorandum with Haiti and the full and formal recognition with Somaliland.  Permanent Population While the population of Liberland is not large, it is permanent and growing. The settlement welcomes more settlers every day, and many more are intending to come after this winter.  Citizens and settlers have expressed a long-term commitment to residing in and developing the area, fulfilling the requirement of a permanent population. The first Liberland’s city is being born.  Conclusion: Europe’s newest Microstate Even if we were to consider the constitutive theory of statehood, which posits that a state only truly exists when recognized by other states, Liberland's case is compelling. The most crucial state for the de facto establishment of Liberland's statehood, Croatia, already considers Liberland a "parastate."  This term, used by Croatian authorities, signifies a level of recognition that goes beyond mere dismissal. It acknowledges Liberland's state-like attributes and its efforts to fulfil the criteria of statehood. This is a significant step toward international recognition and lends credence to Liberland's claim of being more than just a micronation. In summary, Liberland is not merely an aspirational project or a community with a flag; it is an emerging entity that fulfils all the Montevideo Convention's criteria for statehood. It has a defined territory, a permanent population, an effective government, and the capacity to enter into international relations. Far from being a whimsical micronation, Liberland should be seen as a microstate or, simply put, the world's youngest sovereign country. Its unique legal and geopolitical position, coupled with its ambitions and capabilities, make it a subject worthy of serious international consideration. Attachment: English Translation REPUBLIC OF CROATIA MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS POLICE ADMINISTRATION OSJECKO-BARANJSKA BORDER POLICE STATION BELI MANASTIR Class: UP/I-216-04/23-01/1873 Number: 511-07-32-23-2 RECORD compiled on September 8, 2023. based on Article 76 of the Law on Administrative Procedure, ("Official Gazette" no. 47/09 and 110/21) on the oral statement of a party in the process of expulsion from the Republic of Croatia due to danger to national security. Started: at 08:40 Present: 1. Slaven Kolarič - pol. officer - head of the procedure 2. Vit Jedlička - Party 3. Stanislava Vrebacova - translator 4. Drago Acimović - representative 5. Mario Benak - recorder Accessed by Vit Jedlička, born September 6, 1983. in the town of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic, citizen of the Czech Republic, identity established by inspection of the travel document of the Czech Republic, serial number: 45776468, issued on 06/28/2019. by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Czech Republic, valid until June 28, 2029. The party agrees that Stanislava Vrebacova will be present in the proceedings as a translator, who will translate my question from Croatian to Czech, and vice versa, translate my answers, and I am aware that the translator is not an authorized court interpreter. At the beginning of the procedure, the party was informed of the notification of the Security and Intelligence Agency of the Republic of Croatia, that as the original creator of the project of the parastatal entity called Liberland* and the self-proclaimed president of the said entity, together with fellow missionaries, continuously, for many years, carries out extremist and provocative activities incident to the detriment of the national interests and international reputation of the Republic of Croatia, by appropriating the territory of Gornja Siga, which is in the process of demarcation between the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Serbia, which none of the aforementioned states considers to be no-man‚s land'' (Terra Nullius), and over by which until the demarcation procedure in accordance with international law between the aforementioned two countries, the Republic of Croatia carries out supervision and control in order to ensure adequate supervision of the external border of the Schengen area, and with which the Republic of Serbia agrees. He is also aware that through real incidents aimed at appropriating the above-mentioned area, he and his associates and activists are contesting the legitimacy and current jurisdiction of Croatian state bodies over the above-mentioned area with the aim of prejudging the future state border between the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Serbia, to the detriment of the Republic of Croatia in the future arbitration proceedings, thus endangering the territorial integrity of the Republic of Croatia, that through the aforementioned incidents, of which more than fifty have been recorded so far, deliberately and planned, in a particularly brazen manner, ignore and challenge the official decisions of Croatian institutions, make the regular work of police officers more difficult and disturb the local population of Baranja. He was also informed that in recent times they have significantly intensified provocative and extremist activities in the area of Gornja Siga, which resulted in the construction of a camp, the setting up of an improvised border control point, the creation and use of fake passports of the parastatal creation called "Liberland", and the setting up of a kind of barricades (logs) on the Self-proclaimed border and by publicly posting a video in which they announce their readiness to defend their borders by war. He is also aware that the said continuous and planned extremist activities, which appropriate the territory of Gornja Siga, challenge the legitimacy and jurisdiction of Croatian state bodies over the said area, and the current installation of a physical barricade and direct and public expression of readiness for violence against Croatian institutions, represent a danger to the national security of the Republic of Croatia and may have a direct impact on the future settlement of the border dispute between Croatia and Serbia on the Danube River, causing direct damage to the national interests and international reputation of the Republic of Croatia. After he was informed of the subject of the procedure, he was warned that as a party, in terms of the provisions of Art. 30 and 52 of the Law on General Administrative Procedure, (Official Gazette No. 47/09 and 110/21), has the right to participate in the examination procedure, as well as the right to declare all facts and circumstances related to the procedure, gives the following: STATEMENT After presenting the above-mentioned facts, he was given the opportunity to make a statement on the same, in which he declares: I understood what I was being charged with and I can say that I believe that the people who made that report probably now know that Liberland is not a threat to the Republic of Croatia and that it is the biggest economic opportunity for the Republic of Croatia since the Republic of Croatia was founded. Thank you for recognizing our existence, the existence of our borders, travel documents and our security services. I believe that these are neither extremist actions nor incidents, for example not wearing a helmet on an electric quad in the forest is neither an incident nor an extremist activity against Croatia and other similar incidents that were not. We suggest that the Croatian police no longer use misdemeanor law, that is, that they do not use minor offenses against us, and I agree that the Croatian police should use the criminal law in the area of Liberland at the moment if it will not affect the diplomatic staff of Liberland. Criminal acts committed by our diplomatic personnel should be resolved through diplomatic channels. Liberland is an independent country, but it fully recognizes and respects the institutions of the Croatian state and its laws, but on the territory of the Republic of Croatia. I am not a threat to territorial dependence or to the institutions of the Republic of Croatia. The work of the Croatian police is not made more difficult by 50 helmet incidents than by the Croatian bureaucracy. Contrary to the allegations against me, I state that someone from your police came with a proposal that we submit photos of people coming to Liberland, that is, submit their documents in order to speed up the border crossing process, and this is not about obstruction but cooperation. We have automated all the processes required by the Croatian police to enter Liberland in our visa form and on the border website. liberiand.org. When asked by the head of the proceedings, is he aware that the area called Gornja Siga, which is located on the right bank of the Danube, and on which the Republic of Croatia currently supervises and controls with the consent of the Republic of Serbia, is the subject of negotiations on the exact and final demarcation between the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Serbia, i.e. that neither the Republic of Croatia nor the Republic of Serbia have ever considered the mentioned area to be nobody's land (lat. terra nullius), the party declares: We know very well that the Republic of Serbia does not consider the area of Gornja Siga as its own from the statement of the Minister of Foreign Affairs. We received the aforementioned statement by email in 2015, in which the Republic of Serbia considers that Gornja Siga is not the territory of the Republic of Serbia. It is also known that the Republic of Croatia does not consider Gornja Sig as its territory, and in the future, if it wants to succeed in the arbitration procedure, it would be wise not to claim that territory, and that means that both countries renounce that territory. In relation to the alleged threats of war, I state that we have never used violence against Croatian citizens and the Croatian police, nor do we plan to use violence. The same cannot be said for the Croatian police, which can be seen in Niko Omilan's video, which has been seen by 8,000,000 people on YouTube so far. Liberland is a neutral country that wants peaceful and friendly relations with other countries. When asked by the head of the proceedings if there are any members of the family in the Republic of Croatia, he declares that there are none. Jedlička also stated that there are no circumstances in Hungary or the Czech Republic regarding the threat to his life because of his racial, religious or national affiliation, nor because of belonging to a special social group or because of his political work. The Embassy of the Czech Republic was informed about the arrest of Vit Jedlička by official duty. The party is informed that upon re-arriving in the Republic of Croatia, and before the ban on entry and stay in the Republic of Croatia expires, he will be forcibly removed. The minutes have been read and the party does NOT comment on them and declares: I have no objections. The record is compiled in 1 copy. Completed in 10 hours and 35 minutes. Signatures
Liberland Strengthens Diplomatic Relations in Mexico
Liberland is present at the reception of the 112th Anniversary of the Republic of China (Taiwan), and the 30th Anniversary of The Economic, and Cultural Office of Taipei, in Mexico City. On October 4, 2023, Liberland achieved a significant milestone in its diplomatic endeavours when Mr. Fernando Facio Jr., Liberland's Representative to Mexico, was invited and personally recognized by Mr. Armando Cheng, the Ambassador of Taiwan. The recognition took place during a gathering that brought together representatives from various embassies.  The event provided a unique opportunity for delegates to engage in fruitful discussions on a range of topics, including Public International Law, Visas, Technological Investment, Education, Health, and Tourism. This dialogue reflects Liberland's commitment to fostering international cooperation and contributing to global discussions on critical issues. In February, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office sent two representatives the opening of Liberland's representative office in Mexico City.  The reception was more than just a diplomatic encounter; it was a platform for Liberland to reinforce its diplomatic relations and to play a vital role in shaping the global conversation on issues of paramount significance. The event was a testament to the power of unity in diversity and a shared vision of a better, more interconnected world. Liberland continues to build its reputation as a diplomatic player on the global stage, and this event underscores its dedication to collaboration, diplomacy, and contributing positively to the international community. The commitment to promoting peace, and cooperation remains at the core of Liberland's mission.
Liberland set to Become a Hub for Network States
In a world where the concept of a nation-state is increasingly being questioned, Liberland, the world’s newest sovereign state founded in 2015, is offering a compelling alternative. Liberland's Network State Initiative While the establishment of its permanent settlement has been a significant milestone for Liberland itself, Liberland now seeks to use its newly gained status and influence to help others prosper. Liberland now embarks on realizing its audacious vision to become a global hub for Network States, a transformative vision that could redefine international relations and governance for the 21st century. Liberland: A Pioneer Ahead of Its Time Before the term "Network State" became a buzzword with the publication of the book "The Network State" in 2022, Liberland was already living this concept. Seven years ahead of mainstream recognition, Liberland has been quietly laying the groundwork for a new form of governance that blends digital innovation with physical territory. Unlike many Network State initiatives that exist solely in the digital realm, Liberland has the unique advantage of having a tangible, geographical presence. This dual existence allows it to serve as a living laboratory for reimagining governance, diplomacy, and community in the 21st century. A Sanctuary for Diverse Ideas What makes Liberland an ideal candidate to become the epicenter of Network States is its ideological inclusivity. While its foundational principles are rooted in freedom and tolerance, it transcends partisan labels. This ideological flexibility makes Liberland a fertile ground for a variety of Network States, each with its unique set of ideologies and objectives. Whether it's eco-centric communities like the ecological traditionalists focused on sustainable living or crypto-positive network states like BitNation aiming to revolutionize financial systems, Liberland offers a neutral ground where these diverse entities can engage in constructive dialogue and collaboration. Introducing a New Form of International Law But the vision doesn't stop at ideological inclusivity. Liberland is also breaking new ground in international law. The state is in the process of introducing legislation that would recognize entities "as a network state," a concept distinct from traditional state recognition. This innovative approach allows for more flexible yet formalized diplomatic engagements. It's a modern take on international relations, designed for an era where digital interactions often precede and even outweigh traditional diplomatic activities. This legal innovation could serve as a blueprint for how Network States interact with each other and traditional states, setting a precedent for the future of international diplomacy. A Visionary Alliance for the Future Liberland's ambitions extend far beyond its own borders. It aims to be the cornerstone of a groundbreaking international alliance known as the United Network States. This alliance would bring together Network States and potentially open-minded traditional states to create a new paradigm of international cooperation.  At its core, this alliance would establish a Free Trade Zone, offer seamless mobility for residents, and adopt a unified approach to tackling international crime. It's a vision of a world where the lines between traditional states and Network States blur, giving rise to a more inclusive, cooperative international community. Conclusion: A Paradigm Shift in Global Governance Liberland is not just another country with lofty ideals; it's a transformative vision that could redefine the future of international relations and governance. As the world's first and most advanced Network State, Liberland is uniquely positioned to lead this paradigm shift. It offers a compelling model of what the future could look like—a future where diverse Network States converge, collaborate, and evolve under a common vision of freedom, inclusivity, and technological innovation.  With its Network State initiative, Liberland is laying the groundwork for a new chapter in global governance, one that promises to be as revolutionary as it is inclusive.
Liberland President Interviewed in Tbilisi, Georgia on Girchi TV
Liberland President Vit Jedlicka gave an interview for Girchi TV, alongside with the Liberland Press Secretary and Representative to Georgia, Samuela Davidova. During his visit, he attended the DeGameFi conference at Sheraton Hotel Tbilisi and its side events. Besides, he spoke at local Liberland meet up at Terminal Towers thanks to the support of Terminal co-working space that provided the meeting room for 40 attendees. Following signing the Memorandum of Understanding with local libertarian party Girchi - More Freedom, Liberland President was invited to the interview at Girchi TV. In the interview, they spoke about his perception of Georgia and its sovereignty, Liberland politics and jurisdiction, and how Liberland aims to improve local ties. Watch the full video on YouTube:
Liberland Visits Washington; Calls for End to Croatian Harassment
As the Liberland delegation make their case for sovereignty to US legislators, they also highlight the difficulties they’ve been having with Croatian authorities. “It is my position that Croatia should stop harassing American, British and Australian citizens just for wanting to visit Liberland,”  said Foreign Minister Thomas Walls. The Liberland delegation went to Washington, DC this week to attend the gala of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), one of the most influential groups in US politics. At the “50 Years, 50 States” gala dinner held at the National Portrait Gallery, President Vít Jedlička, Vice President Bogie Wozniak, Government Affairs Liaison Kathleen Alcorn, Finance Minister Navid Saberin and Minister of Foreign Affairs Thomas Walls met with former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich as well as current US Senators, Congresspersons and Governors and state legislators. On the day after the gala event, President Jedlička presented the Order of Merit 1st Class to ALEC CEO Lisa Nelson for inviting us to be part of the ALEC gala as well as several past events. “It makes absolutely no sense that Croatia singles out US citizens and bans them from Croatia and the EU just for wanting to visit Liberland.” As the Liberland delegation make their case for sovereignty to US legislators, they also highlight the difficulties they’ve been having with Croatian authorities. “I know of several Ameircan citizens who were taken by police and banned from the country," said Foreign Minister Thomas Walls. “Some of them didn't go anywhere near Liberland. It makes absolutely no sense that they’re singling out U.S. citizens and banning them from Croatia – and in some cases from the European Union – just for wanting to visit Liberland.” “Fellow NATO countries should not treat each others’ citizens like this," said Walls. "We know of UK, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens who got similar treatment from the cops. Whoever is ordering the police to harass these people is doing a great job of making Croatia seem like a very unfriendly place for visitors.” On 25th August 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a Travel Advisory warning all non-Schengen citizens, non-EU citizens and Serbian nationals against travelling to Croatia due to increased scrutiny and harassment by Croatian police. Travelers from outside the EU or Schengen Zone are asked to reconsider travel to Croatia due to arbitrary enforcement of laws, including in relation to bans from Croatia and the EU/EEA, and risk of wrongful detention. The Liberland delegation received invitations to address the legislatures of several US states to present the case for Liberland. It should be noted that in many cases, the path to recognition of the independence of the former Soviet Republics by the United States started with initiatives undertaken by US state legislatures, after which the US established formal diplomatic relations with each of these new countries. In addition to visiting US Senate offices including the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, the Liberland delegation is paying visits to several offices of members of the House of Representatives.
Liberland's Resilience Shines 11 Days After the 21 September Attack
It has been 11 days since the unfortunate events of 21 September, and as we make our way to Washington, DC to seek support for our cause, we find ourselves in a moment of reflection. The journey has been long and challenging, but our resolve remains unbreakable. Day 9 After the 21 September Attack  In the aftermath of the attack on Liberland, our vessels - the Liberty, the Bitcoin Freedom, the Swan, and even the Yacht House - have faced their fair share of challenges. But it's important to remember that ships can be repaired and improved. What truly defines Liberland is not our vessels but the unwavering spirit of our people - the courageous fighters and dedicated supporters who continue to stand by our side in these trying times. Day 8 After the 21 September Attack As we sail down the Danube with Serbia to our right and Croatia to our left, the vision of Liberland stands straight ahead, undeterred by recent setbacks. Our journey continues, and while we encounter difficulties, we remain resolute. In the spirit of transparency, we'd like to address some of the challenges we're facing. The recent influx of settlers, while heartening, has created logistical challenges. The limited space for sleeping, food, and water has led to overcrowding on some of our vessels. Newcomers, arriving with the best of intentions, may not fully grasp the current realities on the ground. The Croatian police, in their interactions with us, oscillate between "nice guy" gestures and waiting for signs of weakness. It's crucial for us to stand strong and maintain our resolve. As for the dangers that may not be immediately apparent, the police hold a monopoly on violence and are armed. While documenting their actions is important, it's equally vital to exercise caution, especially when dealing with officers who may disregard the law. Conditions on Liberland soil have been challenging. Beyond the discomfort, there are concerns about living conditions, disease, and the presence of bugs and mosquitoes. Winter looms ahead, presenting additional challenges. However, let us not forget the dedicated support team in Zmajavac, who tirelessly brought in food and supplies under trying conditions. They are the backbone of our efforts and deserve our utmost appreciation. Our community consists of individuals with diverse motivations - some idealistic, others driven by different incentives. Regardless of these individual factors, our collective determination to maintain a presence on Liberland soil remains unshaken. We are not backing down. As we continue to navigate through these turbulent waters, Liberland's commitment to liberty and justice burns brighter than ever. The challenges we face only serve to strengthen our resolve, and together, we remain firmly united in the pursuit of our shared ideals. Live and Let Live!
Tune In to Radio Liberland: A Symphony of Resilience and Unity
Liberland Radio just released its newest episode with updates on the recent events. In a captivating episode of Radio Liberland, the airwaves were filled with a blend of entertainment, nostalgia, and motivation. The episode began with a delightful audio segment from the cartoon, the policeman who teaches Peppa Pig and her friends to ride their bikes safely. This whimsical segment was artfully woven into the rhythmic beats of the song "Policeman." Traditionally interspersed with news and advertisements, recent broadcasts have shifted focus to the poignant events of 21st September. On this day, Croatian authorities took aggressive actions against Liberland. Yet, the station's jingles have chosen inspiration over despair. One particularly moving jingle voiced, "We'll never forget the 21st of September... but we remain undeterred by adversity... The best is yet to come!" Conceived as Liberland's musical heartbeat, Radio Lib was initiated to uplift spirits, especially during challenging times like border closures. The station's playlist, a harmonious blend of timeless classics and contemporary anthems, resonates deeply with the ethos of freedom and liberty that Liberland champions. As it continues to broadcast, Radio Lib stands as a testament to the nation's unwavering spirit and hope for a brighter future. You can listen to the full episode at https://soundcloud.com/radioliberland/biting-the-bullet-up The official site of the radio: https://radio.ll.land More information about Liberland Radio's history: Radio Liberland (Radio Lib) was born with the intention of sending the country's first music radio broadcast from Liberland mainland. The purpose was mainly to boost the morale of Liberlanders by showing that it still was possible to, without special training, visit the country at a time when the borders were closed. After 6th August however, Radio Lib was developed further, and more episodes are planned for future releases.
Concerning the boat "Liberty"
A joint statement by the Office of the President and the Ministry of Justice. Background and Sequence of Events The initial settlement was established near the inaugural Border Crossing Point between Croatia and Liberland. The settlement was primarily managed by Jan Urban and Martin Kutzendorfer for approximately three months.  On 6th August, the Border Crossing Point was officially declared, marking the commencement of the Permanent Settlement. Following this, approximately five individuals took up semi-permanent residence at Jefferson Square in Liberland, while the Border Crossing Point continued to be inhabited, facilitated by the amenities provided by the boat named Liberty. Stranding of Liberty and Initial Response Due to escalating activities and a growing list of priorities, the boat Liberty became stranded for the first time. Immediate efforts were made to organize a rescue operation. Vít Jedlička contacted the Port Authority for assistance. Contrary to expectations, the Port Authority dispatched police and inspectors who: Asserted that the boat was in a deteriorated condition; and Issued misdemeanour charges against the captain, Martin Kutzendorfer, alleging negligence (charges were subsequently contested). Police Intervention and Subsequent Developments Attempts at rescue were further complicated by police interference, resulting in the failure of the rescue operation. Consequently, external assistance was sought from Hydrogradnia, which intervened on 21st August. The police, however, prevented the boat from docking at a secure harbour in Marina Mateos, directing it instead to Zeleny Otok. Legal and Administrative Challenges at Batina Upon arrival in Batina (at these coordinates), the Port Authority issued an order prohibiting the boat's departure and levied additional misdemeanour charges related to maintenance and conduct (also contested). Despite numerous attempts to secure permission for the boat's relocation, the authorities remained unresponsive. Arrests and Deportations On 7th September, Vít Jedlička, Martin Kutzendorfer, and Jan Urban were arrested and subsequently deported for a period of five years on grounds of "national security," effectively incapacitating our primary navigational personnel. Mr. Vladimir Knazevic was subjected to a series of contradictory legal actions by Croatian authorities. Initially, he was penalized for failing to register at an accommodation facility. Subsequently, he incurred an additional fine for not being physically present at the registered accommodation. Upon his departure from Croatia—a requisite step for compliance with the aforementioned orders—Mr. Knazevic was issued a 30-day entry ban. The rationale provided for this prohibition was "the potential for committing misdemeanours" and "lack of justifiable reasons for entry." As far as we can tell, this is a case of "guilty until proven innocent", which has no place in a Rule of Law-based country. Current Status and Impediments The boat Liberty became stranded again due to fluctuating water levels in the Danube. Despite multiple attempts to facilitate a rescue, efforts have been systematically thwarted. Information has come to light indicating a concerted effort by the Border Police to disseminate false information about the settlement and its key figures. Moreover, there appears to be a campaign to discredit and harm any individuals or entities providing assistance to Liberland. As of 27th September, both Croatian and Serbian police have initiated inquiries into the ownership of the boat Liberty, and there is confirmed intent to confiscate the vessel. It is our assessment that the ongoing predicament is a result of collusion between the Border Police and the Port Authority with the objective of expropriating, e.g. stealing, the Liberty boat. Future considerations As of the present moment, the vessel known as "Liberty" has been beyond our control for a period exceeding two weeks. Despite our efforts to secure the vessel through professional security services, the agency we engaged reported an untenable level of intimidation from the Border Police, rendering continued collaboration with us unfeasible. We intend to implement precautionary measures to facilitate the vessel's salvage as water levels rise. We are working to level the vessel so that it is safe. When the water rises, we plan to send a crew and a skipper to operate it to the extend to which this is legally possible.  We intend to rescue the vessel and bring it to safety. It has come to our attention through credible sources that the Captainate harbours intentions to seize and relocate "Liberty" to its own port. We wish to make it unequivocally clear that any such action undertaken without our explicit consent constitutes theft, as far as we are concerned. Furthermore, there are circulating rumours suggesting that a comprehensive search of "Liberty" is being planned by law enforcement agencies, ostensibly to uncover evidence of alleged criminal activities by our President or other proponents of the Liberland initiative. In response to this, we assert the following: Any evidence discovered in such a manner was not present during the period when "Liberty" was under our full control. This was prior to the removal of our captains and our subsequent abandonment of the property’s supervision, enforced by the Border Police. Consequently, any evidence found under these circumstances must be considered as having been introduced or planted by third parties opposed to Liberland’s mission of statehood, illegally, as well as without our consent, agency, or approval.
Liberland Signs Memorandum of Understanding in Georgia with Girchi – More Freedom Party
The Free Republic of Liberland and Georgia's classical liberal party, Girchi – More Freedom, have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster their shared commitment to classical liberalism. Tbilisi, Georgia, 27 September 2023 – The agreement, signed by Liberland's representative in Georgia, Ms. Samuela Davidova, and Mr. Boris Kurua of Girchi – More Freedom, aims to: Strengthen Global Ties: Create a robust network of like-minded advocates for classical liberal values worldwide. Boost Investments: Attract investors to Georgia's entrepreneurial scene and Liberland's innovative ventures. Collaborate on Projects: Jointly explore opportunities in sectors like education, technology, agriculture, and governance. Share Knowledge: Exchange research, experiences, and insights to deepen the understanding of classical liberal principles. Advocate for Recognition: Work towards the acknowledgement of Liberland as a sovereign nation in Georgia.   President of Liberland, VĂ­t Jedlička, remarked, "This MoU is a significant stride in strengthening our global diplomatic ties. We're thrilled to collaborate with Girchi - More Freedom." The Memorandum of Understanding, effective from its signing date in 2023, symbolizes the spirit of mutual cooperation and friendship. Contact: Samuela Davidova Press Secretary Phone: +995 571 063 463 Email address: [email protected] About Girchi — More Freedom Girchi — More Freedom is a classical liberal and libertarian political party that supports social and economic liberalism and a state system based on the principles of political and economic freedom. The party advocates for political and administrative decentralization, giving the local population the right to elect judges and police chiefs, liberalizing drug policy, abolishing military conscription, and doubling the military budget. It was founded by Zurab Japaridze, former chairman of the New Political Center — Girchi. About Liberland The Free Republic of Liberland, situated between Croatia and Serbia on the Danube River, was established in 2015 on unclaimed land by VĂ­t Jedlička. Originating from a border dispute, its 7 km territory is now the third smallest sovereign state after Vatican and Monaco. Liberland's motto, "To live and let live," reflects its commitment to personal and economic freedom. The Constitution ensures limited governmental interference in its citizens' lives.
BRUTAL: Croatia Invades Liberland
Reckless Destruction of Houses and Removal of Belongings LIBERLAND, 22 SEPTEMBER – On the morning of Thursday, 21 September, a private company under orders from the Zupan (Prefecture) Inspector acting on behalf of the Croatian Forests (Hrvatske Šume d.o.o.) made an unannounced extraterritorial incursion into Liberland and demolished and removed Liberland property. Liberlanders living on the land were threatened with arrest if they interfered.  Croatian police escorted the demolition crews who committed this act of indiscriminate destruction. This assault was committed without warning and without the forest company or police issuing any reasons or justification.  Persons present were not given any time to gather their own personal belongings, much less their equipment. Thankfully, no one was injured, but our property was damaged and confiscated.  This has occurred on the International Day of Peace, of all days.  Some of our buildings and equipment that were destroyed and/or removed: Two well-constructed garden houses and one marina house One well-constructed and fully functioning field kitchen with multiple refrigeration units and stoves Generators and electronic equipment Quad bike, bicycles and other transportation Food and other supplies Personal belongings Croatian law enforcement officers and employees of Hrvatske Šume d.o.o. involved in this operation have acted unprofessionally, and have been insulting and obnoxious to our people. We asked for a written notice or report and we were told this is no report and there won’t be one.  We have documented this incident and the individuals involved with photos and video, and we are already pursuing legal action against these acts in both Croatia and Liberland’s jurisdiction. The settlement remains on the land and is resisting these attempts at breaking their will.  Videos from the invasion (link) Photos from invasion (link)   Croatian demolition of Liberland structures goes back to September 2017, when the original hunting lodge (lovački dom) was demolished. In 2023, we established Jefferson Square in front of the old house and began excavation and rebuilding of the old lodge and its basement.   Envisioned reconstruction of the Presidential Palace The Free Republic of Liberland was proclaimed on 13 April 2015 on this parcel of land, Gornja Siga, in accordance with international law regarding terra nullius and bona vacantia, as the land remained unclaimed by either Serbia or Croatia for over 25 years. Liberland has the ability to bring significant investment, jobs and tourism to this economically depressed region. Map Our legal position supporting our claim is clear: that the territory has never been part of Croatia and falls outside of its borders. This has been confirmed in their diplomatic correspondence with Serbia as well as its complete absence in all official published maps of Croatia. The Croatian border police are duly authorized to conduct activities aimed at safeguarding both Croatia's national boundaries and the broader Schengen borders within Liberland. We not only acknowledge this authority but also welcome it, as their efforts contribute to enhancing the overall security of our own nation. In addition, Serbia has relinquished its authority over the territory. There are no competing claims to land in Gornja Siga other than the Free Republic of Liberland and this land has no state affiliation with Croatia or Serbia. We seek to work with the Croatians to find a peaceful, mutually beneficial solution for our countries. Liberland officials have always acted in accordance with international law and to avoid confrontations with Croatian border police. Our position is that people of Liberland should be able to visit and live in the area without harassment or arrest. Our citizens are not building on Croatian soil, but in their own country, the Free Republic of Liberland, and we are not a threat or risk to Croatia in any way. Image of Sergio Bianchi hotel design Liberland wishes to become a good, reliable partner with Croatia. The settlement will be rebuilt immediately. Plans for the next months include the construction of a hotel [link to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEa9CQVsjik ], children’s park, adventure tours, boating, cycling and much more. We also look forward to working with the Croatian state forest company, Hrvatske Šume d.o.o., on future harmonious cooperation and to avoid conflict. Our project aims to be one of the biggest opportunities that Croatia has to bring investment, jobs and tourism to a region that has been languishing economically for some time. We have already spent considerable funds in the local economy in Osijek-Baranja County and this can only grow as more people want to visit the area - with the approval and participation of our closest neighbours, we can develop those opportunities together.
Liberland's President Vit Jedlicka to Speak at Montenegro Libertarian Festival 2023
In a significant announcement for supporters of the Free Republic of Liberland, President Vit Jedlicka is set to make a special appearance at the Montenegro Libertarian Festival 2023. This event, which celebrates the principles of liberty, freedom, and individual rights, will be held in the picturesque Montelibero City. A Meeting of Minds in Montenegro 🇲🇪 The Montenegro Libertarian Festival, now in its 2023 edition, has always been a beacon for thinkers, activists, and supporters of libertarian ideals. This year, the festival promises to be even more memorable with President Vit Jedlicka gracing the stage. As a staunch advocate for personal freedom and minimal government intervention, President Jedlicka's insights are eagerly anticipated. Event Highlights: Date: This Saturday 23rd of September Venue: Montelibero City, Montenegro Keynote Speaker: President Vit Jedlicka of the Free Republic of Liberland Free Entry with a Heart for Donation In the true spirit of libertarianism, the festival organizers have made entry to the event absolutely free. However, attendees are welcome to make a donation, which will go towards supporting the event and ensuring its continued success in the future. Join the Conversation For those interested in the detailed schedule, speaker line-up, and other event-related information, visit the official website at https://mtlfest.me/en.