Andorra's Visura Ciutadana Holds First Meeting on Housing, Economy and Health

The second edition of Andorra's Visura Ciutadana held its inaugural meeting yesterday evening at the Government's administrative building, bringing together ten newly selected members with officials including Head of Government Xavier Espot and Secretary of State for Equality and Citizen Participation Mariona Cadena.

Comprising five men and five women selected by lottery about a month ago, the group reflects a broad cross-section of society: entrepreneurs, salaried workers, retirees, active and passive residents, young and older individuals. None are affiliated with political parties, associations or other organisations, allowing them to voice everyday concerns directly. Cadena described the initiative—launched in the previous legislature—as a "consolidated" tool for active listening, serving as a bidirectional advisory body beyond traditional consultations.

Members quickly raised priorities such as housing, cost of living, foreign investment, taxation, health, equality, accessibility for people with disabilities, addictions, immigration and environmental protection. Discussions also touched on Andorra's economic future, with calls for a model shift to create higher-value jobs and better salaries.

Júlia Pons, a lawyer and tax advisor from Barcelona who has lived in Andorra for seven years, said she joined to give back to the country that has supported her. Josep Benjamí Rodrigo, a retired passive resident from Valencia based in Escaldes-Engordany, emphasised his 50 years of life experience, urging conditions that enable people to develop new roles. "History is not written; we create it every day," he noted.

Cadena welcomed the diverse input, stating the government values hearing from unaffiliated citizens and will channel proposals through relevant ministries for consideration in decision-making. The group aims to harness collective intelligence, with periodic meetings and reports planned to address these issues.