Andorra Boosts Digital Ministry Budget by €372K for 2026 Transformation

The Andorran government approved a €372,172.57 budget increase for the Ministry of Digital Transformation in early December, formalised by Decree 469/2025 published in the BOPA on 17 December. The funds, allocated for 2026, will support specialised software to enhance digital service management and public system integration.

This expansion forms part of a broader 2025 push to accelerate the country's digital shift, including the rollout of the digital wallet and the announcement of the Centre de Benestar Digital. These initiatives aim to reshape government-citizen interactions. Digital Transformation Minister Marc Rosell has emphasised that the process extends beyond technology, stressing the need for real support. "We want to provide genuine accompaniment in the digital transformation," he said in October during the Centre's presentation. "We must stand by citizens and businesses."

The Centre de Benestar Digital, developed with Andorra Telecom, will offer a physical space, workshops and seminars targeting various groups, including families. Rosell highlighted parental concerns over excessive device use and inappropriate content access. "Not everything is completely secure," he acknowledged, advocating tools to help users—especially minors—spot risks and rights violations. He noted Andorra's size enables swift rollout via parent associations, sports entities and local channels.

The budget boost aligns with the government's Digital Transformation Plan, structured around four pillars: digitising administration to reach 90% digital procedures by 2030 while retaining in-person options; supporting SMEs with finance, training and digital payments; bolstering tech infrastructure and cybersecurity through the National Cybersecurity Agency, interoperability bus, Andorran digital identity and technologies like AI, blockchain and cloud; and safeguarding digital rights via data protection, digital divide reduction and ethical frameworks.

Experts warn, however, that technical advances alone are insufficient without addressing social challenges. The funding risks excluding vulnerable groups—particularly the elderly—unless paired with training and guidance to bridge the digital gap. Simplified online procedures could otherwise sideline those lacking skills. Stronger protections are also needed against online child abuse, data breaches and cyberattacks on businesses to ensure rights for all.

Rosell reiterated the focus on pedagogy and support, positioning the Centre as a key tool. The digital wallet, by contrast, serves as a practical mobile repository for documents like driving licences, aligning with a 2026 EU directive on digital formats. Success, observers say, hinges on building a secure, ethical and inclusive digital ecosystem.