On April 13, 2015, Vít Jedlička proclaimed the Free Republic of Liberland on an unclaimed (terra nullis) land lot known as "Gornja Siga" between Serbia and Croatia. On the eve of the celebration of the second anniversary of his nation's founding, dual citizen and ambassador to Liberland, Mike Opelka, talked with the president on "Pure Opelka".
Liberland is located on the west bank of the Danube river and was established as libertarian haven. It was founded intentionally and symbolically on Thomas Jefferson's birthday.
The nation has had to wage an ongoing campaign for legitimacy since its founding. Jedlička assured Mike that his claim of nationhood is indeed legitimate, being recognized by both Serbian and Croatian diplomats. He has also been allowed to speak in the Croatian parliament as a foreign president. The White House even sent passes to Jedlička to attend President Trump's inauguration.
Mike invited his audience to join the president and people of Liberland for the second anniversary celebration, though Jedlička did emphasize that it is invitation only, with visitors encouraged. They do not yet have a hotel (it is only about 4 square miles), but there are accommodations in neighboring nations.
The new nation's constitution is also not completely finished, as the president is carefully wording it to allow as much personal freedom as possible. The preamble emphasizes personal responsibility and the right of citizens to abolish the government if it becomes too oppressive.
Mike asked how listeners who find Liberland's deep reverence for personal freedom appealing could apply to be citizens. The president directed them to the website, where one can safely register to begin the process.
The new nation is friendly with the United States and does have "a lot of friends in the Trump administration." Jedlička emphasized that Americans should feel welcome and safe to do business with Liberland. They are already producing products for export, such as American-style ale Liberbeer. They are also establishing a network of pubs and hope to open several in the US soon.
Mike looks forward to hoisting a glass alongside the president.
To see more from Mike, visit his channel on TheBlaze and listen live to “Pure Opelka” weekdays 12-3 p.m. ET, 7–10 p.m. ET & Saturdays 6–9 a.m. ET, only on TheBlaze Radio Network.
BlazeTV Staff
