Croatian Police Chase Youths in Boats near Apatin over ‘Republic of Verdis’ on the Danube!
Picture this: a group of young people sailing the Danube near Apatin, enjoying nature and their quirky project — the formation of the so-called “Republic of Verdis.” But instead of peace, they get chased by Croatian police boats! Yes, you read that right. Croatian border police crossed the Serbian side of the Danube about ten days ago and stopped these young adventurers just to ask if they had stepped onto territory that neither Croatia nor Serbia recognizes as their own.
What is the Republic of Verdis?
This unusual “state” was founded on a piece of land not covered by cadastral maps of either Serbia or Croatia. Led by Daniel Jackson from Australia, their goal is to connect cultures, promote nature, and boost tourism along the Danube. They even have their own passports and ID cards, with around four registered citizens and many more citizenship applications in progress.
Incidents and Legal Confusion
Verdis started building its first settlement on land slightly larger than the Vatican. However, problems began immediately. Croatian police unlawfully detained some citizens, including the president of Verdis, who was only 18 at the time. Deportations of settlers followed, all because of territory that no country claims.
Why does this matter?
This incident highlights the absurdity of borders and bureaucracy in the region. While young people try to create something new and positive, they face state apparatuses that refuse to acknowledge reality or the desire for connection and development. Professor Miletić notes that hatred and intolerance still run deep in the region and wonders why we don’t strive for better functioning societies and states.
What’s next?
Verdis continues to develop despite pressures and incidents. This tiny “republic” on the Danube is becoming a symbol of resistance against bureaucracy and borders that mean little to ordinary people. Will Croatia and Serbia finally recognize this territory, or will conflicts and bans continue?
If you think this is just another bizarre Balkan story, think again. It’s a story about youth who don’t give up, about confusing borders, and about states that don’t know what to do with land that belongs to no one.
So, what about you? Would you dare to found your own tiny country on unknown land? Or would you rather avoid a police chase? Share your thoughts — maybe you have the solution to this Balkan mess!
Slug: hrvatska-policija-juri-mlade-verdis-dunav-apatin
