https://liberland.org/en/news/534-the-speech-of-the-liberland-president-awarded-the-gusi-peace-prize
Liberland Press Secretary Samuela Davidova 3 December 2023
Liberland President Vit Jedlicka has been awarded the Gusi Peace Prize in Manila, Philippines. During the main ceremony, he delivered an inspiring and heartfelt speech.
In his speech, President Jedlicka highlighted Liberland's commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and a governance system based on voluntary participation, drawing inspiration from Thomas Jefferson. He emphasized the nation's dedication to non-violence and a justice system focused on incentives rather than punishment. President Jedlicka proudly noted Liberland's record of safety and peace since its inception, expressing deep gratitude for the Gusi Peace Prize and its support in advancing Liberland's mission and values on the global stage.
The Gusi Peace Prize is often referred to as the 'Asian Nobel Peace Prize,' it honors excellence in a range of fields including, but not limited to, statesmanship, science, economics, and humanitarianism. Liberland President was awarded among other notable presidents and diplomats in the past, such as President Kgalema Motlanthe from South Africa, Prime Minister Timothy Harris from St. Kitts and Nevis, President Antonio Eanes from Portugal, President Arnold Rüütel from Estonia, or President Fidel V. Ramos from the Philippines.
The full speech of the President:
"Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
It’s truly a pleasure to be invited here and to be present among so many honorable guests.
Liberland was born on April 13th, 2015, the birthday of Thomas Jefferson. We purposefully selected this date to honour the great contributions that this founding father of the United States made to the development of civilization on our planet.
A central part of Liberland's philosophy is our commitment to resolving conflicts peacefully and maintaining neutrality. This echoes Jefferson's ideals of 'peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations,' and avoiding all entangling alliances.
The absence of the use of force in our governance is the second key element of how Liberland operates. When people become citizens, they pledge not to take from their fellow citizens by force. This includes stealing by the means of the state apparatus. Our tax system is voluntary. Anybody voluntarily contributing to the government receives merits in return as they become true stakeholders of the country.
The third most important idea behind the formation of Liberland is the removal of violence from Liberland’s justice system and the use of incentives rather than punishments. Rather than throwing people in jail for years, the main form of punishment for crime is the removal of Merits.
These three key founding rules guide us in our mission to build the freest and the most peaceful nation on the planet. It pleases me greatly to note that there have been no loss of life or even notable injury in Liberland since its inception. This is something for which I am profoundly thankful.
It is our hope that this legacy continues as we strive to establish constructive relations with our neighbours and the international community.
I am deeply honoured by the recognition I am receiving in the form of the Gusi Peace Prize, which significantly aids our efforts. I am honored to salute the legacy of Captain Javier Gusi as well as Madame Gusi and of course the work of Barry and Evelyn Gusi. Thank you very much!"
About The Gusi Peace Prize
The Gusi Peace Prize, established in 2002 in the Philippines, is an international award recognizing distinguished individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to peace and human rights across the globe. Often referred to as the 'Asian Nobel Peace Prize,' it honors excellence in a range of fields including, but not limited to, statesmanship, science, economics, and humanitarianism. The prize, named after Captain Gemeniano Javier Gusi, a World War II veteran and Philippine guerilla who later became a politician and human rights advocate, symbolizes the enduring commitment to peace and the betterment of humanity. Each year, laureates are celebrated in a ceremony in Manila, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the global pursuit of peace, freedom, and human dignity.