He declared a new country governed by AI. He’s not sure it will end well
He declared a new country governed by AI. He’s not sure it will end well
He declared a new country governed – One year ago, tech entrepreneur Dan Thomson announced the creation of a country ruled entirely by artificial intelligence, situated on a tropical island nestled in the heart of Asia. Twelve months later, despite claiming that thousands have expressed interest in becoming citizens of his project, Thomson remains uncertain about its ultimate success. The island, which he acquired in 2025, is located in the Philippines’ scenic Palawan province, and he named it after his AI startup, Sensay. By establishing a micronation, Thomson installed a council of AI-driven entities designed to mimic the leadership of historical figures, including Winston Churchill, Eleanor Roosevelt, Marcus Aurelius, Nelson Mandela, Sun Tzu, Leonardo da Vinci, Alexander Hamilton, and Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. He also launched residency applications, aiming to transform the remote location into a hub for alternative living. But as he admitted to CNN Travel, “If it starts acquiring weapons and attacking nearby islands, that would be a problem. I think it’s extremely unlikely.”
A Digital Experiment with a Physical Locale
Though Sensay lacks formal international recognition, its ambitions to function as a self-sufficient nation have sparked curiosity. The project’s foundation lies in the idea of testing how AI can govern a community, blending technology with governance in a way that challenges traditional systems. Thomson’s vision includes a mix of transient visitors and potential permanent residents, with the island’s current population consisting of just one individual, Mike, who serves as the groundskeeper. According to Emily Keogh, a communications advisor for Sensay, the island’s infrastructure is modest but functional, housing space for approximately 30 villas. “It’s not massive, but it’s not insignificant,” Keogh noted, highlighting the project’s balance between ambition and practicality.
Thomson’s declaration as the youngest president in the world has drawn attention, though the Palawan government has yet to respond to inquiries about its stance on the island’s new governance. The lack of formal endorsement from local authorities underscores the experimental nature of the endeavor. Meanwhile, the concept of micronations—self-proclaimed states with minimal political legitimacy—has a long history, dating back to the Principality of Sealand, which emerged in 1967 on a decommissioned WWII naval platform off the English coast. Sealand, with its own monarchy, passports, and even a sports team, exemplifies the eccentricity that defines many such entities. Others, like the bohemian Republic of Užupis in Lithuania or the California-based dictatorship of Slowjamastan, have transformed into tourist attractions, blending whimsy with a sense of autonomy.
Historically, micronations have been driven by a desire for novelty, freedom, and the exploration of unclaimed territories under the principle of “terra nullius.” However, recent trends show a shift toward more technologically oriented goals. Entrepreneurs and crypto visionaries have embraced the idea of using micronations as testbeds for their ideals. For instance, in 2023, Balaji Srinivasan organized annual “Network State” conferences, gathering like-minded individuals to build virtual communities that could one day secure physical land and diplomatic status. Similarly, in 2017, Olivier Janssens, another crypto pioneer, aimed to establish the world’s first libertarian country through his Free Society Foundation. His ambitions, however, have since scaled down to a special economic zone on the island of Nevis, raising concerns among local residents.
A Fusion of History and Code
Thomson’s AI council is a unique amalgamation of historical influence and modern technology. Each bot is modeled after a figure known for their leadership, wisdom, or innovation, with the intent to simulate decision-making processes. The selection of names like Mandela and da Vinci suggests a focus on both ethical governance and creative potential. However, the practicality of such a system remains debated. “We’ve got a lot of people applying to live here, which was more than we anticipated,” Thomson said, emphasizing the community’s growing interest. Yet, the absence of documented proof for the island’s ownership has left some questioning its legitimacy.
Despite these uncertainties, the project has garnered support from individuals like Piotr Pietruszewski-Gil, who now serves as a project manager. Pietruszewski-Gil, with prior experience in micronation ventures, described Thomson’s initiative as more advanced than his own. “In July 2025, I was working on my micronation and developed some AI models based on historical leaders like Cicero,” he explained. “But when I discovered Sensay, I realized this was something more sophisticated.” His involvement highlights the growing intersection between technology and microstate creation, as digital thinkers seek tangible spaces to manifest their ideas.
Thomson’s aspirations for Sensay extend beyond its current state. He envisions it becoming a destination for island-hopping travelers and scuba divers who already flock to Palawan’s shores. The island’s potential as a tourist hub is seen as a bridge between the virtual and the physical, offering a glimpse into the future of governance. However, the project’s success hinges on its ability to attract both residents and visitors, while navigating the complexities of legal recognition and operational feasibility. “I think it’ll be mostly visitors, with some permanent residents,” Thomson said, acknowledging the challenge of sustaining a population on a largely uninhabited island.
The Future of AI-Governed Societies
As the world grapples with the rise of AI in everyday life, Thomson’s micronation represents a bold experiment in applying the technology to governance. While critics may question its viability, the enthusiasm from applicants suggests a belief in its potential. “We’ve ended up with about 12,000 people showing interest in residency,” Thomson noted, underscoring the project’s appeal. This influx of support, though largely speculative, reflects a broader trend of individuals seeking alternative systems that align with their values.
AI experts, meanwhile, remain cautious. They raise concerns about the risks of delegating decision-making to machines, particularly in areas such as law, economy, and security. Yet, Thomson argues that these doubts have not dampened the project’s momentum. “People are still excited about the idea,” he said, highlighting the blend of innovation and aspiration that defines Sensay. The island, with its combination of natural beauty and technological ambition, stands as a symbol of what could be possible if AI were to take the helm in shaping society. Whether it will thrive or collapse remains to be seen, but for now, it continues to attract attention and challenge conventional notions of statehood.
The journey of Sensay also mirrors the evolving landscape of micronations. Once niche projects for hobbyists, they now serve as platforms for ambitious entrepreneurs exploring the boundaries of autonomy and governance. Thomson’s vision aligns with this shift, positioning his island as a test case for a future where AI not only aids but leads in administrative and political matters. As the project progresses, it may redefine what it means to be a nation, blending tradition with the digital age in a way that is both intriguing and uncertain. For now, the island remains a quiet experiment, awaiting the world’s reaction to its unorthodox approach to leadership and community building.
While the lack of official documentation casts doubt on Sensay’s legal standing, its supporters see it as a necessary step toward a new kind of society. “It’s about creating a space where people can test ideas without the constraints of traditional governments,” Pietruszewski-Gil said. The project’s success could depend on its ability to maintain a balance between innovation and functionality, ensuring that the AI-driven governance model is both practical and engaging. As Thomson continues to refine his vision, the island’s story serves as a reminder of the possibilities—and pitfalls—of blending technology with human aspiration in the quest for a self-governed future.
