Micronations 2023

A micronation is a freshly established nation-state that has yet to gain international recognition from the likes of the United Nations.

In contrast to a microstate, which is a very small nation with its recognised government, this does not have its official government (such as the Vatican or the South Pacific country of Tuvalu).

Instead, a micronation is a sovereign state that does not have diplomatic relations with any other nations and cannot conduct independent commerce. They often result from a single person or small group declaring independence and enduring anywhere from a few hours to a few years.

Micronations often claim territory in favour of libertarian ideals or opposition to a government’s unpopular policy, and they may even create their currency and passports for citizens. On the other hand, these passports and currencies are only valid inside the micronation and have no value outside.

In 1972, a group of libertarians attempted to create a utopia on an artificial island near Fiji called the Republic of Minerva. Tonga, a neighbouring nation, quickly occupied the island and destroyed it in a violent coup.

Another effort at establishing a libertarian sanctuary, the Free Republic of Liberland is located in Eastern Europe on the border of Croatia and Serbia. However, only Somaliland, a semiautonomous entity inside Somalia, legally recognises it.

Some micronations have been founded by persons who feel they have a legitimate claim to the territory in question.

Forvik, a Crown Dependency in Scotland, claims to be its micronation since it asserts it is not part of the United Kingdom under international law while being physically situated on the Shetland Islands.

Other micronations spring up in opposition to larger states. In 1970, for instance, Australian Leonard Casley founded the Principality of Hutt River as a response to government restrictions on wheat production.

The Conch Republic in Key West, Florida, is only one example of a micronation that has benefited from tourism and goods sales.

A sign reading Welcome to the Conch Republic greets visitors at Key West International Airport, although the micronation was never formally recognised. Visiting tourists purchase novelty items honouring the micronation as a tourist attraction.

Also See: Man-Shortage Countries / Countries with a Shortage of Men 2022

The internet has altered the appearance of micronations by allowing people to apply global communications technology to questions of national borders and statelessness.

To that end, Bit Republic provided passports to anybody who sought to become a citizen and made an effort to establish a global nation without borders.