A decisive moment for Andorra
On April 7, 1933, Andorra la Vella became the scene of a historical event that would forever transform its institutions. The revolt, promoted by the clandestine group known as Joves Andorrans, was to modernize the government’s system of government. In a determined action, they occupied the House of the Valley, the heart of Andorran political power, demanding radical changes.
Key claims for the future
The demands of young Andorran were clear and ambitious: the creation of a democratic constitution that ensured the fundamental rights of citizens, freedom of expression and thought, universal male suffrage for over 23 years, teaching in Catalan and transparency in parliamentary sessions. These proposals reflected the aspirations of a society that demanded a change.
A context of crisis and labor rights
The backdrop of this revolution was a deep economic crisis that had severely affected Andorra’s working classes. The emigrated Andorran communities, which had found refuge in cities like Barcelona and Toulouse, openly criticized the feudalist structures that dominated the country and demanded a response to modern needs.
The revolt of the strikes
The months before the revolution were marked by the first labor strikes in the history of Andorra, with workers of FHASA (Andorra Hydroelectric Forces) demanding work improvements. Social tension increased as authorities were incapable of managing the crisis.
The occupation of the Casa de la Vall
Taking advantage of the fact that the security forces were focused on repressing the labor strikes, the young Andorrans entered the Casa de la Vall without opposition. This unexpected action caused moments of great tension and, in some cases, violence. After hours of difficult negotiations, Andorran politicians gave in to the demands of the rebels.
A new path to modernization
The acceptance of the demands marked the beginning of a new stage for Andorra, a path reminiscent of the new reform of 1866, promoted by figures such as Guillem de Plandolit. This moment opened its doors to a process of social and political modernization that would transform Andorran society in the later years.
Reflections on the legacy of 1933
The 1933 Revolution is a powerful reminder of the capacity of communities to fight for their rights and modernization. Its legacy is still alive in the current Andorran society, which continues to navigate between tradition and innovation, reflecting on the value of citizen participation in the construction of a fairer future.