Andorra Reaffirms Cautious Abortion Decriminalisation Stance

Andorra's government has reaffirmed its cautious approach to decriminalising abortion, insisting any reform must safeguard the country's co-principality system.

During the Political Orientation Debate at the Consell General, Head of Government Xavier Espot stated the executive is working on a proposal to decriminalise voluntary pregnancy interruption. He stressed the need to balance women's sexual and reproductive rights with preservation of Andorra's institutional framework. "No woman should face criminal penalties for such a difficult and traumatic decision," Espot said. However, he warned that risking the co-principality institution—central to Andorran identity for over seven centuries—would amount to "genuine recklessness." The government aims to present a consensual reform to parliament before the end of the current term, describing the issue as "essential and unavoidable," while rejecting accusations of inaction or immobilism.

Relations Minister Ladislau Baró, responsible for ties with the Holy See, echoed this stance. He said progress on decriminalising women for abortion would occur "if—and only if—sufficient elements confirm the change will not alter the political regime set by the Constitution." Baró questioned whether the Partit Socialdemòcrata's (PS) recent bold pro-decriminalisation rhetoric from leaders Gerard Alís and Maria Nazzaro would extend to a potential electoral coalition with Concòrdia.

Opposition voices pushed back. Concòrdia leader Cerni Escalé accused the government of missing earlier opportunities, noting more favourable conditions during Pope Francis's 14-year papacy and statements from the former Episcopal Co-Prince supporting decriminalisation without constitutional risk. He asked why the executive had not acted then, warning the current context under the more conservative Pope Leo XIV could prove harder. PS parliamentary head Susanna Vela lamented that two decades after 2005 debates, the issue remains stalled or worse.

The debate highlighted ongoing tensions, with the government prioritising consensus to avoid institutional confrontation or "dichotomous elections."