Andorra Social Democrats Propose Abortion Decriminalization Up to 14 Weeks
Social Democrats seek to reform Andorra's Penal Code via reserve amendment, permitting abortions up to 14 weeks and limited later cases, arguing it upholds women's dignity and matches European norms on reproductive rights.
Key Points
- Reserve amendment to Penal Code reform decriminalizes consensual abortions in first 14 weeks.
- Allows abortions 14-22 weeks for maternal health risks, rape, or severe fetal anomalies.
- Aligns with European human rights standards; ends criminal penalties for women's choices.
- Currently fully criminalized except limited cases; debate pending in Consell General.
The Social Democratic parliamentary group has submitted a reserve amendment to the qualified bill reforming Andorra's Penal Code, aiming to decriminalise consensual abortions during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy.
The proposal would make abortion a criminal offence only when performed outside the legal conditions or time limits. Between 14 and 22 weeks, it would permit the procedure in cases of risk to the pregnant woman's life or health, pregnancy resulting from a sexual liberty offence, or severe fetal anomalies confirmed by a specialised report.
Social Democrats argue the change aligns Andorran law with social realities and European standards on human rights and sexual and reproductive health. They maintain that women should not face criminal penalties for choices about their bodies, and the state's role should focus on healthcare, legal support, and assistance rather than punishment.
Consellera General Susanna Vela, president of the PS group, stated the amendment seeks to ensure women's dignity, freedom, and legal security. She added that Andorra cannot persist with rules that criminalise personal decisions and force women to leave the country for a right available across most of Europe.
The group plans to defend the reserve amendment at the next Consell General session. Currently, abortion remains fully criminalised in Andorra, with limited exceptions. No timeline for debate or vote has been announced.
Related Articles
Other articles from Catalan-language sources about the same story:
- El Periòdic•
El PS porta al Consell una proposta per despenalitzar l’avortament durant les primeres 14 setmanes de l’embaràs
- Altaveu•
El PS defensarà al Consell la despenalització de l'avortament durant les primeres 14 setmanes
- Diari d'Andorra•
El PS defensarà al Consell una esmena per despenalitzar l’avortament fins a les catorze setmanes
- Bon Dia•
El PS defensarà despenalitzar l'avortament al Consell