Andorra to Revamp Disability Assessments by Autumn 2026 with Capacity-Focused Approach

Andorra's Social Affairs Minister Trini Marín announced on Tuesday that the revised regulation for the National Assessment Commission (Conava) will be ready by autumn 2026, specifically between October and November.

The updated text, now under review, will introduce changes to disability degree assessments and support allocation. Marín highlighted a major shift toward evaluating individuals' capacities rather than focusing solely on impairment levels. This approach will identify what people can do independently and the specific resources needed to enhance their autonomy in daily activities. "The key modification will place the focus on capacities, to determine what the person can do and what needs they have," she explained.

The regulation will also expand recognition to include chronic pain, fibromyalgia, ADHD, addictions, and rare diseases—conditions advocated by local disability and health associations. The ministry is working with relevant entities to define technical criteria for disability grades and the new capacity-based framework.

In 2025, Conava registered 2,134 people with impairment degrees over 33%, with 191 new assessments and incorporations that year—a 9.8% increase from 2024. State Secretary Esther Cervós and department director Joan Carles Villaverde presented these figures alongside Marín during a departmental review. Cervós noted that such recognition grants access to government supports, including direct social security affiliation for those over 18 until retirement. Last year saw 44 new affiliations, bringing the total to 359 beneficiaries at a cost of €1,442,860.43.

Other initiatives include the Independent Life programme, with projects like 'Vull emancipar-me' (aiding 8 young people in 2025), 'Me’n vaig a casa meva' (21 people assisted), and personal assistant services (3 beneficiaries). These efforts promote autonomy and social inclusion, aligning with the government's person-centred model.