Andorra Male Prison Officers' Salaries Surge 33%, Creating 16% Gender Pay Gap

Male prison officers in Andorra have seen their entry-level salaries grow substantially faster than those of female officers since 2018, creating a 16% gender pay gap where none existed previously, according to government data released this week.

The figures, shared by Interior and Justice Minister Ester Molné in response to questions from Social Democrat deputy Pere Baró, show overall pay for prison agents rising 33% over eight years. In 2018, women earned an average fixed monthly salary of €2,640.37—€124 above the men's €2,516.28. By 2026, women's pay reached €2,879.35 after a 9.05% increase, while men's climbed 32.58% to €3,336.59. Fixed salaries incorporate base pay, complements, career and seniority allowances, personal antiquity supplements, and provisions under prison staff regulations for permanent positions. Categories with one or two staff were excluded for privacy.

First-class sub-officers have seen even sharper gains, with current salaries at €7,003.82—nearly double the €3,662.32 from 2018.

The La Comella penitentiary currently employs 66 staff: 58 men and eight women. Roles break down as one director, one deputy director, two officers, six first-class sub-officers, 12 sub-officers, and 45 agents (three in training). A competition for five agent positions opened on 12 August, with future staffing to be assessed based on retirements.

Without early retirements from age 55, eight positions face mandatory retirement in five years: the deputy director, two first-class sub-officers, two sub-officers, and three agents. The government plans to replace them progressively.

Baró also inquired about a reintegration protocol for returning staff, amid suggestions it targeted one person. Molné said it was crafted with equality specialists, applies gradually, and differentiates general from intervention units. It involves temporary, preventive operational steps without pay cuts, penalties, or career effects.

Molné rejected claims of broad prison unrest, attributing issues solely to the Andorran Prison Union (SPA). The other two unions reported no concerns. She stressed distinguishing union stances, with meetings held as needed and dialogue channels open to all, including the SPA despite its one-sided suspension, to enhance public service.