Country Profile: Andorra
Andorra, the landlocked Principality nestled in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, boasts a rich historical backdrop as one of the smallest states in Europe. Governed as a parliamentary democracy since 1993, it features a unique co-principality system with leaders from both France and Spain. With a population of approximately 85,370, Andorra thrives on a robust economy primarily driven by tourism, banking, and low taxes, attracting around 8 million visitors annually for its duty-free shopping and winter sports.
Geography
Andorra is located in southwestern Europe, bordered by France to the north and Spain to the south. The country covers an area of 468 square kilometers, characterized by rugged mountain terrain divided by narrow valleys. With a temperate climate, it experiences snowy winters and warm, dry summers, making it a prime destination for both winter and summer tourism.
- 468 sq km: Total area.
- 2.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.: Comparative area.
- 118 km: Total land boundaries with neighboring countries.
- Mean elevation: 1,996 m, with the highest point being 2,946 m at Pic de Coma Pedrosa.
- 39.9%: Percentage of agricultural land (2022 estimate).
People and Society
As of 2024, Andorra's population stands at approximately 85,370, with a notable ethnic diversity including Spanish, Andorran, Portuguese, and French groups. The official language is Catalan, with significant portions of the population also speaking Castilian and Portuguese. The religious landscape is predominantly Roman Catholic, reflecting the country's cultural heritage.
- Population growth rate: -0.12% (2024 estimate).
- Median age: 48.8 years (2024 estimate).
- Life expectancy: 83.8 years at birth (2024 estimate).
- Urban population: Represents 87.8% of the total population (2023).
Economy
Andorra's economy is marked by its high GDP and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive location for investment, especially in tourism and technology. The country is a non-EU Euro user and has been modernizing its financial sector. Despite challenges from COVID-19, it continues to leverage its status as a duty-free zone and a hub for international commerce.
- Real GDP (PPP): Estimated at $5.402 billion for 2024.
- GDP per capita: Approximately $65,900 (2024 estimate).
- Services sector: Accounts for 77.6% of GDP (2024 estimate).
- Exports: Valued at $3.169 billion in 2023.
Government
Andorra operates as a parliamentary democracy, where the heads of state, co-princes, include the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell in Spain. The General Council, its unicameral legislature, comprises 28 members directly elected for four-year terms. The country utilizes a mixed legal system influenced by civil, customary, and religious law.
- Co-princes: President Emmanuel Macron and Archbishop Joan-Enric Vives i Sicilia.
- Last election: Held on April 2, 2023.
- Voting age: Suffrage is granted to citizens at 18 years.
Military and Security
Andorra does not maintain regular military forces; instead, its defense is managed by France and Spain. The Police Corps of Andorra operates under the Ministry of Justice and Interior for internal security purposes.
- No regular military: Defense responsibilities lie with neighboring France and Spain.
Energy
Andorra has achieved full electrification, ensuring that 100% of its population has access to electricity as of 2022. The country continues to explore renewable energy initiatives alongside its robust energy infrastructure.
Environment
Environmental concerns in Andorra include deforestation, soil erosion, and air pollution. The country engages in several international environmental agreements aimed at biodiversity and climate change mitigation. Urbanization has led to significant land use challenges.
- Total renewable water resources: Approximately 320 million cubic meters (2020).
- Urban population: Estimated at 87.8% (2023).
Transportation
Andorra has limited transport infrastructure due to its mountainous geography. It features two heliports and relies heavily on road connections to France and Spain for transit.
- Civil aircraft registration: C3.
- Heliports: 2 scheduled for 2025.
Communications
The country has a well-developed telecommunications network with a high rate of mobile and internet usage. Approximately 95% of the population has access to the internet as of 2023, supported by a significant number of telephone subscriptions.
- Total mobile subscriptions: 126,000 (2022 estimate).
- Internet users: 95% of the population (2023 estimate).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 85,370 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 468 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $5.402 billion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $65,900 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | Not specified | - |
| Birth rate | 6.9 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 83.8 years | 2024 estimate |
| Urban population | 87.8% | 2023 |
| Electric access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Climate | Temperate | Snowy winters, warm summers |
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