Virtus Rejects Unilateral Abortion Decriminalisation in Andorra

Andorra la Vella – Virtus has called for dialogue and consensus on abortion to safeguard Andorra's institutional balance, warning that rigid positions risk making agreement impossible.

In a statement, the party emphasised protecting the coprinces' institution as the highest-ranking authority. It cautioned that addressing certain rights without consideration could trigger an immediate institutional crisis and long-term uncertainty.

Virtus expressed sensitivity to women's rights regarding voluntary pregnancy termination, respecting individual decisions. However, it argued that unilateral legislation would compromise the episcopal Co-Prince. The party advocated finding an acceptable balance through talks that accommodates modern cases without undermining key state duties.

Any solution exempting women from criminal penalties must involve essential dialogue with the episcopal Co-Prince in a consensus framework that respects the Catholic Church leader, Virtus said. This path demands dialogue, prudence and discretion.

The party criticised unilateral advocates for overlooking consequences, such as the Social Democratic Party's (PS) assertion that abortion is constitutional, despite Article 8.1 of the 1993 Constitution stating: "The Constitution recognises the right to life and protects it fully in all its phases." It also cited the Andorran Women's Institute secretary general's claim that abortion rights prevail over the Coprincipat.

Virtus rejected "precipitous actions, improvisations and cheap populism," pointing to the 1993 Constitution's consensus process as a model. It stressed that political courage means upholding all rights, including those of the unborn, without damaging core institutions.

Andorra has navigated profound changes and crises since the 13th-century Pariatges through dialogue and mutual commitments, preserving essential balances, the party recalled. It urged keeping negotiation channels open.