El Periòdic d’Andorra Celebrates 29 Years Covering Persistent National Challenges

**El Periòdic d’Andorra marks 29 years of coverage amid enduring national challenges**

El Periòdic d’Andorra launched on 3 February 1997, beginning its reporting journey in a country grappling with issues in transport infrastructure, politics, tourism promotion, and housing. Nearly three decades later, those same topics dominate the news agenda, though their scale and context have evolved significantly.

Landslide disruptions on key access roads highlight a persistent vulnerability. In 1997, a landslide on the N260 near Martinet on 26 January caused major traffic issues, peaking the following Friday amid heavy tourist traffic. This year, another incident on the RN20 has drawn attention to the Principat’s fragile entry routes, prompting traffic restrictions and reliance on alternative paths.

Housing affordability shows the starkest contrast. Today, average home prices exceed €1 million, with supply dwindling and many properties under €400,000 sold subject to existing rental contracts. Back in 1997, prices were far lower: a 35-square-metre studio in La Massana cost 6.5 million pesetas (about €39,000), while a 210-square-metre chalet fetched 36.5 million pesetas (roughly €219,000).

The political landscape blends continuity and change. That year’s elections featured leaders including Ladislau Baró of Agrupació Nacional Democràtica, Marc Forné of Unió Liberal, Jaume Bartumeu of Nova Democràcia, and Vicenç Mateu of Iniciativa Democràtica Nacional. Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Demòcrates per Andorra leads the Consell General with support from Ciutadans Compromesos, bolstered by the affiliation of independent councillor Víctor Pintos. Opposition parties are Concòrdia, Andorra Endavant, and the Partit Socialdemòcrata.

Tourism promotion remains a fixture, as seen at Fitur. In 1997, Andorra’s presence included Tourism Ministry representative Enric Pujal, Escaldes consul major Lydia Magallón, and World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Francesco Frangialli, alongside the announcement of the first World Snow Tourism Congress set for April in Escaldes-Engordany. In 2026, the country maintains a refreshed stand with updated marketing strategies to enhance its global profile.

Reaching this milestone, El Periòdic d’Andorra reflects on nearly 29 years of documenting a nation transformed yet anchored by core social and infrastructural concerns.