Andorra Civil Protection Adds 15 Volunteers, Hits 40 Amid Backlash Over Ex-Spanish Officer

**Andorra's Civil Protection Corps Welcomes 15 New Volunteers, Reaching 40 Members Amid Controversy**

Andorra's Civil Protection volunteer corps has added 15 new members following the successful completion of its second training promotion, bringing the total to 40 volunteers. The announcement, shared on the corps' social media channels, underscores the expanded capacity for emergency prevention and response across the country.

The incorporation process involved an initial interview, online training modules on topics such as self-protection, natural risks, and traffic management, followed by in-person sessions on volunteer roles and emergency procedures. Participants concluded with practical exercises, including the deployment of a provisional shelter. The program drew collaboration from several organizations, including the Andorran Red Cross, Andorra Research and Innovation, Andorra's firefighters, and the traffic service, with input from volunteers of the first promotion sharing their experiences.

Civil Protection highlighted the initiative's role in bolstering national security and response capabilities through volunteer commitment and inter-institutional cooperation. Requirements for joining remain straightforward: applicants must be over 18, reside in Andorra, have no criminal record, and pass the interview and training phases. Service is unpaid and activated on an as-needed basis for emergencies or major events.

The expansion has sparked unease in business and other sectors in Andorra and Spain's Alt Urgell region. Among the new volunteers is a recently retired corporal from the Spanish Guardia Civil's ODAIFI unit—responsible for fiscal analysis at the Farga de Moles detachment—who sources describe as having pursued numerous individuals across the border over the past 15 years, leading to multiple incidents and widespread resentment. While he now resides permanently in Andorra, meeting all eligibility criteria, his inclusion has prompted criticism from those who experienced his past actions firsthand.

Some observers noted that former security personnel, often retiring young and familiar with the area, frequently join such volunteer roles. Civil Protection has not commented on the specific concerns.