Andorra Disability Groups Push for Adapted Emergency Phone Service

The Andorran Federation of Associations of People with Disabilities (FAAD) has called for an adapted emergency telephone service to ensure accessibility for all, particularly those with hearing, intellectual, or neurosensory impairments. FAAD president Diana Figueras highlighted cases where individuals cannot communicate emergencies by phone, urging that such calls be effective for everyone. She cited examples from France, where a dedicated number allows text-based communication, and certain Spanish regions with mobile apps.

Social Affairs Minister Trini Marín confirmed the government is addressing this through the Interior Ministry, describing it as another tool for people with disabilities to contact services during crises. The push came during National Disability Rights Day, marked at the University of Andorra alongside the UdA Solidària initiative, which focused on guaranteeing rights and full societal participation, especially in education.

Marín announced the draft Law on Guaranteeing the Rights of People with Disabilities is in its final stage, prepared with legal experts and ministry technicians, incorporating United Nations recommendations. It will soon be presented to entities for feedback and amendments before parliamentary proceedings. The law aims to clearly define rights and obligations, building on the recently approved Universal Accessibility Law.

Figueras stressed the need for explicit definitions to prevent violations often stemming from ignorance rather than intent. She noted rights are guarantees to enforce daily, particularly in employment, training, and services, without barriers. Both leaders praised recent measures like fee waivers for university studies for those with recognised disabilities, promoting equal opportunities and talent retention.

Marín emphasised education as a core pillar for inclusion, stating it builds values and ensures no one is left behind, enriching society overall. Figueras advocated shifting from inclusion to coexistence, viewing disability as a societal strength. University of Andorra rector Juli Minoves underscored the event's commitment to solidarity and collective responsibility.

The day featured a talk by former Paralympic athlete and expert Eduard Carrera on disability as a learning opportunity, plus sensitisation workshops by the Andorran Federation of Adapted Sports (FADeA), simulating visual or mobility impairments to promote understanding. Figueras also flagged urban accessibility issues, such as past unadapted bus stops—now being addressed—and bar terraces lacking barriers that risk accidents for those with visual disabilities. She called for school-based education and public campaigns to foster coexistence.