Andorra PM Espot Prioritises Abortion Decriminalisation Before Term Ends

Andorra's Prime Minister Xavier Espot has set approval of abortion decriminalisation legislation as a priority for the current parliamentary session, aiming to finalise it before the legislative term concludes.

In comments to reporters, Espot indicated plans to advance the bill during the next session period. He emphasised continued discussions with the Holy See's State Secretariat, while asserting Andorra's sovereignty to legislate independently, provided it does not threaten the co-principality's institutional framework. "Andorra is sovereign to take its own decisions," he stated, adding that the key outcome of the dialogue is an "intimate conviction" that the reform—regardless of Vatican preferences—avoids crossing the "red line" of permitting abortions domestically.

That boundary, Espot clarified, involves any measure enabling procedures in Andorra, which could prompt the episcopal co-prince's abdication. Decriminalisation for women, by contrast, ends penalties "in the letter of the law" without legalising abortions locally, marking "significant progress." He described the process as relying on "indications, silences, and intimate convictions" rather than formal Vatican approval or written endorsements.

Espot listed the initiative among remaining challenges for his government, including housing, sustainable development, and the EU association agreement. General Syndic Carles Ensenyat had previously highlighted it during Meritxell Day festivities as an unachieved goal on a "long and winding" path. While expressing determination to resolve it this term, Espot acknowledged its complexity might lead to incremental steps extending into the future.

On the EU deal, he characterised outstanding issues with France and Spain—covering criminal records, French involvement, and permits—as procedural matters. No firm signing timeline exists, though it aligns with late September to mid-October targets, incorporating European Commission and San Marino considerations.