Andorran Parties Condemn Encamp Festival Violence, Demand Zero Tolerance

Political parties and organisations across Andorra have condemned violent incidents that occurred during Encamp's Festa del Poble over the weekend, calling for stronger security measures and swift judicial action to prevent recurrences.

Andorra Endavant led the responses by demanding "zero tolerance" for violent crime. In a statement, party president Carine Montaner said citizens deserve security, respect, and institutions that protect them. The group stressed that the state's core duty is to safeguard law-abiding residents, uphold public order, and punish violent acts firmly. It urged equipping police and the justice system with better tools, especially to protect minors, and criticised past efforts to downplay rising insecurity.

National party Concòrdia issued its strongest condemnation of the events, stating violence has no place in a democratic, respectful society. The formation, led by Cerni Escalé, offered support to victims—including a general councillor who was attacked—and expressed confidence that police will clarify the facts while justice responds decisively. Concòrdia warned against normalising any violence in public spaces and emphasised preserving Andorra's tradition of coexistence.

In Encamp, opposition group Avancem voiced deep concern over the clashes, extending solidarity to those affected and praising emergency services. It highlighted reports that some security firm employees allegedly became aggressors themselves and noted this is not the first such incident at local events. Avancem called for a broad debate to review safety protocols, identify shortcomings, and implement improvements, offering to work with the local council.

The Associació per la Defensa del Jovent en Risc d’Andorra (ADJRA) raised alarms in a Monday statement, arguing violence often stems from unaddressed patterns of disrespect or exclusion among youth. The group advocated prevention, emotional education, empathy-building, and conflict resolution as key tools, urging shared responsibility among families, schools, sports clubs, and public bodies to foster safe spaces. It called for reporting any aggression without delay.