Liberland, officially known as the Free Republic of Liberland, is a self-proclaimed microstate that was proclaimed by Vít Jedlička, a Czech right-libertarian politician, in 2015
The founding of Liberland is rooted in the principles of libertarianism, aiming for minimal government intervention and maximum personal freedoms. Taxes in Liberland are voluntary, and according to the official website, anyone who respects individual freedom and the property of others can become a citizen.
However, it is important to note that Liberland is not officially recognized by any United Nations member states or any international organizations. The land claimed by Liberland is in a disputed territory between Croatia and Serbia, known as Gornja Siga. Croatia claims that the land is part of Serbia, but Serbia does not claim it as part of its own territory.
18 facts about Liberland
- Date of Proclamation: Liberland, or the Free Republic of Liberland, was proclaimed on April 13, 2015.
- Founder: It was proclaimed by Vít Jedlička, a Czech right-libertarian politician and activist.
- Location: It claims a small parcel of land on the western bank of the Danube River between Croatia and Serbia. The land is about 7 square kilometers in size.
- Disputed Territory: The land claimed by Liberland is disputed between Serbia and Croatia, although neither country claims it as their own territory. This makes the land a “terra nullius”.
- Citizenship: According to its official website, anyone who respects individual freedom and the property of others can become a citizen, but criminals and communists are explicitly barred.
- Government: Liberland’s government operates on a constitutional republic with elements of direct democracy.
- Currency: The official currency of Liberland is the Merit, and Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are also frequently used.
- Motto: Liberland’s motto is “To Live and Let Live”.
- Flag: The flag of Liberland consists of a yellow backdrop with a black stripe running horizontally through the middle and the coat of arms in the center.
- Recognition: As of my knowledge cut-off in September 2021, Liberland is not officially recognized by any sovereign nation recognized by the United Nations or any international organizations.
- Language: The official language of Liberland is English.
- Taxes: Taxes in Liberland are non-compulsory and are considered more like crowdfunding contributions.
- Religion: Liberland respects freedom of religion and has no official state religion.
- Website: Liberland maintains an active web presence and even offers online application for citizenship.
- Passport: Liberland has its own passport
- National Anthem: Liberland’s national anthem is called “Free and Fair”, and it highlights the country’s libertarian principles.
- Constitution: Liberland’s constitution, available on its official website, draws heavily from the U.S. Constitution and other libertarian principles.
- Diplomatic Efforts: Liberland has been actively seeking recognition from other countries and has appointed representatives in over 100 countries worldwide.
How to go Liberland
As a result, while the area is geographically accessible via the Danube River or by foot from Croatia or Serbia, you should be aware that there have been reported cases of arrests by Croatian border police of individuals attempting to enter the claimed territory of Liberland.
The Liberland official website recommends contacting them for instructions and guidance before attempting to visit. It’s crucial to stay updated on the current legal and political situation and to respect any local laws and regulations