Occhiodia’s Journey to MicroCon 27: EU

The Occhiodian Benevolent Autocracy is barely a year old. Founded in Lorraine, France, on May 24, 2025, it’s not a nation built on centuries of history—it’s built on something far more compelling: imagination backed by action.

Led by founder Rafael Renauld, Occhiodia has already begun carving out its own identity through diplomacy, media, culture, and even the ongoing development of its own language. As Renauld explains, the nation is “dedicated to diplomacy, cultural development, creativity, and community building.” It’s proof that the size of a nation has very little to do with the size of its ambition.

This September, the Occhiodian delegation will make the journey to MicroCon 27: EU in the magnificent walled city of Aigues-Mortes. Why? Because, according to Renauld, they’re eager to “meet other micronations, exchange ideas, and build friendships.” He adds that they’re especially looking forward to meeting “micronations that inspired us such as Republic of Molossia and Slowjamastan,” while also discovering new communities from around the world.

As for the host city, Renauld couldn’t imagine a more fitting venue.

“Aigues-Mortes is a historic and visually impressive medieval city. Its atmosphere and heritage make it a fitting and inspiring location for an international micronational gathering like MicroCon,” says Renauld.

That’s what makes MicroCon different. It’s not just about flags, constitutions, or passports. It’s about the conversations between people bold enough to create something from nothing. The ideas exchanged over coffee. The friendships forged while wandering centuries-old stone streets. The realization that no matter how small your nation may be, you’re part of a much larger story.

For the Occhiodian Benevolent Autocracy, MicroCon isn’t simply another event on the calendar. It’s a chance to take its place in a global community—one built on creativity, diplomacy, and the shared belief that the world’s smallest nations often dream the biggest.