Country Profile: Andorra
Andorra, a landlocked principality in the Pyrenees mountains, sits strategically between France and Spain. As one of Europe's smallest states, it has a unique governance structure transitioning from a feudal system to a parliamentary democracy in 1993. Its population of approximately 85,370 enjoys a high standard of living, bolstered by a thriving economy centered around tourism, banking, and duty-free trade. Despite recent challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, Andorra aims to modernize its economic framework and attract foreign investment.
Geography
Andorra is situated in the southwestern part of Europe, bordered by France and Spain. The country covers an area of 468 sq km, characterized by rugged mountainous terrain and a temperate climate with snowy winters and warm, dry summers. Major natural resources include hydropower, timber, and mineral resources.
- 118 km of land borders with France and Spain
- Highest point: Pic de Coma Pedrosa at 2,946 m
- Roughly 39.9% of land is agricultural, with 38.7% forested area
People and Society
As of 2024, Andorra has an estimated population of 85,370. The population is diverse, with notable ethnic groups including Spanish, Andorran, Portuguese, and French. The official language is Catalan, although Spanish and French are also widely spoken. The country has a predominantly Christian population, mainly Roman Catholic.
- 87.8% of the population lives in urban areas
- Median age: 49.4 years (2025 est.)
- Life expectancy: 83.8 years (2024 est.)
- Total fertility rate: 1.47 children per woman (2025 est.)
Economy
Andorra's economy is characterized by high GDP and low unemployment, with a strong reliance on tourism and a modern banking sector. While not part of the EU, it uses the euro and has established a positive economic relationship with the bloc. The country is looking to attract significant tech investments while recovering from the pandemic's impact on tourism.
- Real GDP (PPP): $5.402 billion (2024 est.)
- GDP per capita: $65,900 (2024 est.)
- Tourist arrivals: 8 million annually
- Exports to Spain: 39% of total exports (2023)
Government
The government of Andorra operates as a parliamentary democracy, with a unique co-principality system where the Chief of State is the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell. The legislative body, the General Council, has 28 directly elected members, and the Prime Minister serves as the head of government.
- Constitution adopted: 14 March 1993
- Age of suffrage: 18 years
- 50% female representation in the General Council
Military and Security
Andorra does not maintain regular military forces; instead, its defense is the responsibility of France and Spain. Law enforcement is managed by the Police Corps of Andorra.
- No standing army; relies on bilateral defense agreements
- Police Corps operates under the Ministry of Justice and Interior
Energy
The entire population of Andorra has access to electricity, reflecting its commitment to modern infrastructure and energy access.
- 100% electrification rate as of 2022
Environment
Andorra faces environmental challenges, including deforestation and soil erosion. The government is a party to several international environmental agreements, focusing on biodiversity and climate change.
- 39.9% of land used for agriculture (2023)
- 315.6 million cubic meters of renewable water resources (2022 est.)
- Annual municipal solid waste generation: 43,000 tons (2024 est.)
Transportation
Andorra has limited transportation infrastructure due to its mountainous terrain but maintains connectivity through its road networks and civil aviation facilities.
- 2 heliports available as of 2025
Communications
Andorra boasts a high level of telecommunications infrastructure, with extensive mobile coverage and internet access.
- 95% of the population are internet users (2023)
- 126,214 mobile cellular subscriptions (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 85,370 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 468 sq km | |
| Real GDP (PPP) | $5.402 billion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $65,900 | 2024 estimate |
| Urban population | 87.8% | 2023 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 83.8 years | 2024 estimate |
| Total fertility rate | 1.47 | 2025 estimate |
| Electricity access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Tourism arrivals | 8 million | Annual estimate |
| Female representation in Gov't | 50% |
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