Andorra's Language Policy department hosts free event on 21 February to promote Catalan on social media,

Andorra's Language Policy department has launched Eixivern, the nation's first gathering of Catalan-speaking content creators, scheduled for 21 February at Unsquare Studio in Andorra la Vella. The free event, coinciding with International Mother Tongue Day, seeks to boost Catalan on social media by fostering exchanges between seasoned creators, newcomers and the public.

Minister Mònica Bonell, overseeing Language Policy, Culture, Youth and Sports, unveiled the initiative with department director Joan Sans at a press conference. Bonell emphasised making Catalan a dynamic digital language, particularly for younger audiences. She noted that social media shapes daily communication among youth and that institutional support is essential for a minority language like Catalan to thrive online. Sans added that creators themselves should drive discussions on the language's digital challenges, drawing inspiration from successful models like the Balearic initiative Aferrada.

The event divides into two parts. A morning workshop from 10am, limited to 20 established Catalan creators, will focus on technical debates, shared challenges and opportunities. Confirmed speakers include comedian Mohamed Lamine (@Wizproblema), Andorran Press Association reporter Nerea San Félix (@nereasanfe or @Nereasanfe) and food content creator Laura Zurriaga (@croquetadexocolata). Organisers plan to invite prominent Andorran influencers producing in Spanish, such as ElRubius, to highlight the language's online viability.

From 4.30pm, an open afternoon session for around 100 people will adopt a more accessible format, streamed live on the department's YouTube channel. This aims to connect emerging talents with veterans, build networks and engage curious newcomers.

Eixivern stems from a May public tender initially for a standard promotion campaign, awarded to Duett Studio SLU for 32,544.32 euros. The proposal shifted to this in-person gathering, supplemented by a publicity drive from 12 January to 20 February. It aligns with the Official Language Law—passed in 2024—and the National Action Plan for the Language, prioritising digital presence. Registration is available at govern.ad/eixivern.