Andorran Data Agency Archives Probes into AI Surveillance Over Lack of Evidence

The Andorran Data Protection Agency (APDA) has archived two preliminary investigations prompted by complaints from Pirate Party member Josep Guirao concerning AI-enhanced video surveillance in Encamp and body cameras for traffic agents in La Massana.

The decisions, outlined in files AP26012 and AP26014, conclude that the systems are not yet fully operational, with no proven data processing or regulatory breaches. Guirao, who made the rulings public on Thursday, has voiced strong opposition, describing them as "legally insufficient" and "institutionally reckless."

In a detailed statement, he argued that the APDA demands evidence of actual harm before intervening, rather than addressing risks posed by intrusive technologies such as AI video monitoring and body-worn cameras in public areas. Guirao criticised the lack of required upfront measures, including impact assessments, technical documentation, and oversight of AI use on public imagery.

He warned that the approach risks creating an "institutional passivity doctrine," allowing unchecked rollout of surveillance tools that could undermine privacy and fundamental rights. Data protection, he stressed, must operate preventively—particularly with emerging technologies—instead of waiting for systems to activate.

Guirao, a key figure in the Pirate Party, accused the agency of abandoning preventive oversight and vowed to pursue all available administrative, judicial, and institutional avenues to challenge the archives and demand system reviews. He called for greater transparency, legal safeguards, and stricter controls prior to any public deployment.

The APDA has not issued further public comments on the matter.