The small principality of Andorra, situated in the heart of the Pyrenees along the French-Spanish border, is an unusual feature in Western Europe. Not until March, 14th, 1993, a democratic constitution was introduced. Up to this date, Andorra had been administrated by France - the last governor was the French President - as well as the Spanish bishop of Seo de Urgell. This so-called Co-Principality had existed for seven centuries.
Since the referendum on the constitution in 1993, a parliament is in power. The 28 members are elected by a general election. Only a few years ago did the parliament authorize the government to impose taxes.

The official language is Catalan but the people speak mainly French and Spanish. One of the main attractions of the tiny mountain country are the winter sports. Tourism is the country's main source of income. Apart from the mountain scenery of the Pyrenees, duty-free shopping has been tempting tourists into Andorra the for a long time. But since Spain joined the EU, the importance of Andorra - which is not an EU member state -  as a 'border market' has decreased. Today, Andorra's economy puts its efforts increasingly into financial services.

Andorra does not have its own currency. People pay with French Francs or Spanish Pesetas and soon in Euro.