Andorra Union USdA Quits EU State Pact Over Unheld Referendum

The Unió Sindical d’Andorra (USdA) has withdrawn from the State Pact on the EU association agreement, pointing to the lack of a firm date for the promised referendum before the next general elections.

USdA Secretary General Gabriel Ubach confirmed the decision in separate interviews with El Periòdic and Diari d’Andorra on Friday. He emphasized that the union joined the pact four years ago—under former Head of Government Jaume Bartumeu—on the explicit condition of holding a public consultation by the end of the current legislative term. Recent statements from Head of Government Xavier Espot, highlighting difficulties in organizing the vote in time, marked a breaking point, Ubach said.

The union leader accused Demòcrates (DA) of prioritizing electoral interests over citizens’ rights, noting that political parties’ goals are valid but cannot override public input. “No party’s interests can come before Andorran citizens,” he stated. Ubach stressed that ample time has passed—despite pursuits like omnibus laws—for setting a specific date and time, and questioned why government assurances from before summer have not materialized.

Ubach reiterated the union’s neutrality on the referendum outcome. “If it passes, fine. If it fails, also fine,” he said, adding that USdA would accept any result since voters are capable of deciding for themselves. He described the pact as one crafted by DA, Ciutadans Compromès, and Unió Parlamentària with the EU, rather than a truly national agreement—though a favorable vote would settle the matter.

The withdrawal notice has been sent to DA. While USdA rules out rejoining civil society pushes to delay the vote past elections, Ubach left open the possibility of reconsidering if the government now announces a date before the 2027 polls. “First we need the day and hour, then we’ll talk,” he said, lamenting years of delays that risk turning the issue into an election tactic.

USdA will continue pressing for the referendum without endorsing yes or no, aiming to avoid arriving at elections without a citizen decision.