Andorran Head of Government Xavier Espot stated the executive supports equipping traffic agents with body

Andorran Government Open to Amending Public Security Law for Body Cameras on Traffic Agents

Head of Government Xavier Espot signals readiness to reform legislation if current rules block urban agents from using the devices during operations.

The Andorran government is prepared to pursue changes to the public security law to allow traffic agents, known as urbans, to wear body cameras. Head of Government Xavier Espot made this clear, stating the executive supports the devices but requires a solid legal foundation for their deployment.

The issue now rests with the National Videovigilance Commission, which includes representatives from the communes, justice authorities, and the public prosecutor's office. Espot emphasized that the government cannot dictate the commission's findings but would act on them. "If they determine that the public security law does not cover body cameras, we will have to amend the law," he said.

This discussion gained renewed attention following a pilot test in Canillo and disturbances during the first night of the Escaldes summer festival. Espot noted personal support for the measure, shared by Interior Minister Gemma Casal, though he stressed it does not automatically comply with existing regulations.

Proponents argue the cameras would enhance agent safety, provide legal protection against complaints or reprisals, and help verify facts in tense situations. Any reform would need to address usage conditions, image handling, and data protection safeguards, though no timeline or scope has been outlined.

Espot cautioned, however, that body cameras would not resolve public order issues like those in Escaldes. Traffic agents lack powers for crime prevention or suppression, roles reserved for the police force.

Escaldes First Consul Rosa Gili echoed this, pointing out that managing disruptive crowds falls more to Interior Ministry and police resources rather than communes. She highlighted ongoing collaboration among security bodies and the Pro-Tourism Union, urging against unnecessary controversy.