Andorran Day Explores Neutrality with 30 Talks Amid Global Tensions
Nearly 30 presentations from diverse experts will examine Andorra's neutrality policy at the annual event organized by the Andorran Society of Sciences, highlighting challenges for small nations in geopolitics.
Key Points
- 39th Andorran Day at Catalan Summer University on August 22 in Prada de Conflent.
- 29 presentations by politicians, academics, diplomats, business leaders, and journalists.
- SAC President Àngels Mach stresses neutrality's role in preserving Andorra's sovereignty.
- Event launches book on housing; new carbon footprint calculation for publications.
The 39th Andorran Day at the Catalan Summer University will explore the meaning of Andorran neutrality through nearly 30 presentations on 22 August at Lycée Charles Renouvier in Prada de Conflent.
Organised annually by the Andorran Society of Sciences (SAC) within the university's programme, the event features 21 in-person talks and eight written contributions, which will later form a book due for publication in 2027. Speakers from politics, academia, diplomacy, business, and media will offer diverse perspectives on the topic, set against a backdrop of global geopolitical tensions.
SAC president Àngels Mach, speaking at Tuesday's launch event, described neutrality as a complex challenge for a small nation like Andorra. "Maintaining neutrality is delicate work, especially for preserving our sovereignty," she said, noting that diplomatic decisions can have lasting repercussions and require careful navigation with neighbours.
Key participants include Foreign Affairs Minister Imma Tor, alongside predecessors Juli Minoves—now rector of the University of Andorra—and historian Meritxell Mateu. Former head of government Jaume Bartumeu will speak with Progressistes-SDP president Josep Roig. General Councillors Cerni Escalé (Concòrdia), Laia Moliné (PS), and Berna Coma are also confirmed, as are Andorra Telecom director Jordi Nadal, Brussels ambassador Vicenç Mateu, former episcopal co-prince secretary Joan Massa, and journalists Iago Andreu, Bru Noya, and Gabriel Fernández.
The day begins at 9am on the Saturday, reviving a weekend format. The launch, held at the Casa dels Guardes del Camí Hidroelèctric d'Engolasters, also unveiled the book Andorra i l'habitatge, compiling last year's housing-focused edition. Contributions there ranged from politicians like consuls, general councillors, and then-State Secretary Jordi Puy to civil society and business groups.
FEDA director general Sílvia Calvó highlighted her organisation's ongoing support alongside the government, praising the initiative for fostering debate. She noted a new sustainability measure: calculating the book's carbon footprint for the first time. SAC coordinator Marta Fonolleda attended the presentation.
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