Andorran Youth Leaders Demand Greater Role in Tackling Housing Crisis and Job Insecurity

Young leaders from Andorra's major political parties are calling for greater youth involvement in key decisions shaping the Principality's future, driven by concerns over the housing crisis, job insecurity, and the country's growth model.

Alexia Vallès of Joventut Socialdemòcrata Andorra, Adrià Palmitjavila from the Secció Jove de Demòcrates, and Marc Torrent of Concòrdia each described similar paths into active politics. What began as personal frustrations over local realities prompted them to engage directly. Vallès pointed to the struggles of young people around her to become independent, saying complaints alone were insufficient and action was needed to drive change. Palmitjavila echoed this, arguing that opinions must be backed by participation, listening, and concrete proposals to make a difference. Torrent, one of Concòrdia's youngest officials and a councillor in Andorra la Vella, highlighted alarms raised upon his return home, including excessive urban expansion, environmental vulnerabilities, and housing shortages. Despite steady employment and above-average pay, he lived with his parents for five years before moving out.

Housing stands out as their shared priority. Vallès described it as the top concern for youth, alongside wages, job stability, and rising mental health issues. Palmitjavila noted how it hampers emancipation and life planning, while also stressing professional opportunities. From his local government perspective, Torrent questioned how Andorra could boost birth rates or retain young residents without securing this basic right, urging combined measures involving public institutions and private actors.

Ideological differences emerge in their proposed fixes. Vallès advocated a bold social democratic approach—regulating where needed, protecting rights, and ensuring equal opportunities. Palmitjavila favoured a balanced strategy prioritising social progress and economic stability. Torrent emphasised multifaceted collaboration over solo institutional efforts.

All three acknowledged widespread disillusionment with traditional politics, but not with its substance. Vallès observed detachment from institutions yet keen interest in personal issues. Palmitjavila called for politics to become more approachable and practical, while Torrent noted that taking public stances in a small country can quickly label individuals, deterring some youth.

Looking ahead, none ruled out higher office. Vallès saw it as a byproduct of commitment, Palmitjavila as a vocation to serve, and Torrent stressed youth engagement in debates over growth models, economic structures, and pensions—issues that will ultimately affect their generation most.