In an unusual geopolitical twist, a 20-year-old Australian man, Daniel Jackson, has proclaimed himself the president of a self-declared nation called the Free Republic of Verdis—a micronation situated in an unclaimed patch of land between Croatia and Serbia.
The 125-acre territory, known as “pocket three,” lies in a legal no-man’s-land along the Danube River. Owing to an ongoing border dispute, neither Croatia nor Serbia officially recognises the area, leaving it in a legal grey zone ripe for micronation experiments.
A Teenage Dream Turned Micronation
The idea of Verdis first emerged when Jackson was just 14, inspired by a shared dream among friends to create something “wild and different.” By age 18, the digital designer, who creates virtual worlds on platforms like Roblox, took the bold step of declaring Verdis an independent nation on May 30, 2019.
Since its founding, Verdis has developed its own flag, a cabinet of ministers, and a draft constitution. The micronation claims to have around 400 global citizens. Its official languages include English, Croatian, and Serbian, while the Euro serves as its currency. Access to the territory is only possible via boat from Osijek, Croatia—an increasingly guarded route.
Meet the Man Behind Verdis
Born in Upper Ferntree Gully, Australia, Daniel Jackson has served as Verdis’ president since its inception. His primary goals include international recognition, diplomatic ties, and nation-building. Jackson operates what he calls a “government-in-exile” after Croatian authorities detained and deported him and several supporters in October 2023, reportedly banning him from entering Croatia for life.
“They couldn’t even explain the reason for the deportation. They just called us a homeland security threat,” Jackson told reporters.
Despite heightened patrols by Croatian police, Jackson maintains a hopeful outlook. He continues to advocate for peaceful relations with both Croatia and Serbia.
Vision for the Future
Verdis issues passports to its citizens—although Jackson warns they are not valid for international travel. Interestingly, he claims a few individuals have managed to cross borders using Verdisian passports.
The micronation is selective about citizenship, favouring applicants with backgrounds in law, medicine, or security—professions essential for a small, self-sustaining community.
Jackson insists he has no intention of holding onto power permanently. Should Verdis gain official recognition or territorial control, he says he will step down and initiate democratic elections.
Though critics may scoff, Jackson’s determination has sparked curiosity across the globe. He argues that since neither Croatia nor Serbia officially claims the land, his nation of Verdis has every right to exist.