Young digital creator Daniel Jackson has officially declared himself president of the Free Republic of Verdis, a self-proclaimed microstate nestled in a contested land area along the Danube River, where Croatia and Serbia have yet to fully claim jurisdiction. The 0.5-square-kilometer (roughly 125 acres) sliver of forest, known on maps as ‘pocket three,’ became the foundation for Jackson’s ambitious endeavor, which he described as a blend of youthful experimentation and the dream of creating something truly unique. Initially conceived at the age of 14, Verdis evolved from an idea into a structured microstate with its own government, flag, and currency as Jackson, then 18, began organizing laws and forming a cabinet. Today, the Free Republic of Verdis boasts over 400 official citizens, with its own national languages—English, Croatian, and Serbian—and the Euro as its official currency. Despite its aspirations, Verdis has encountered significant geopolitical challenges. In October 2023, Croatian police detained Jackson and several settlers, accusing them of being a threat to homeland security, and issued Jackson a lifetime ban from the country. This has forced him to operate a ‘government in exile,’ advocating for the return of Verdis to its rightful land. While Croatia has been unwelcoming, Jackson reports that Serbia has been more cooperative, allowing him to continue his efforts. His vision for Verdis extends beyond a mere experiment; he envisions it as a viable microstate. ‘To the naked eye, it is just a lot of forest,’ he explained. ‘But when you realize that you are in a country you have created, it is magical.’ As Verdis continues to grow and attract skilled individuals, Jackson remains focused on its future, believing that the right to access the land ultimately belongs to its citizens.