Andorra Youth Forum Approves 144,000-Euro 2026 Budget with 43% Increase

The 20th Youth Assembly of Andorra's Youth Forum approved a 2026 budget of 144,000 euros on Saturday, marking a 43,000-euro rise from the 101,000 euros set for 2025.

Held at the Sant Julià de Lòria Cultural Centre, the gathering drew 116 voters aged 15 to 35, meeting the quorum of 0.5% of the country's roughly 23,100 young residents and nationals. Sessions began around 4pm and extended into the evening, covering 2025 account closures, the new budget, participatory activities, and discussions on key youth issues.

Outgoing president Lisa Cruz presented the prior year's finances, which were nearly fully expended, retaining a 5,000-euro balance to cover initial 2026 operations before the budget takes effect. The government-backed increase primarily funds a new participation technician position, estimated at 30,000 euros per year, to strengthen technical support and youth initiatives.

The assembly also ratified Laia Bautista and Miguel Martínez as new Permanent Board members amid an internal renewal. Leadership elections are scheduled for 8 March, following publication of agreements in the Official Bulletin of the Principality of Andorra (BOPA).

Interactive sessions included a "temperature game," where participants physically positioned themselves by level of agreement on topics like job opportunities, housing emancipation barriers, and policy alignment with youth needs. A surprise follow-up activity added a fun, engaging element.

Debates focused on housing access challenges, the youth effects of Andorra's EU association agreement—especially recent negotiation shifts—and alternative nightlife options, such as nighttime sports or cultural events. These topics drew from the National Youth Plan and addressed pressing concerns for young Andorrans. RTVA journalist Esther Vallès moderated to ensure diverse viewpoints.

Forum director Anthony Francome observed a shift toward greater youth demands for concrete outcomes, moving from broad worries to evidence-based proposals on housing, the EU deal, and leisure alternatives. He stressed the assembly's role in wider governance, including online voting and 2026 work plans, with the new technician aiding policy advocacy. "We want the young people themselves to make contributions that lead to real impact," Francome said.

Vice-president Isabella Vargas described the event as a genuine participatory venue, enabling free expression, mutual listening, and joint proposal-building to nurture critical citizenship. The Forum praised the strong attendance and commitment to channeling youth input into tangible 2026 actions.