Andorra Nears Deal to Decriminalize Abortion for Women by 2027, Keeps Procedure Banned

Andorra's head of government, Xavier Espot Zamora, has confirmed that negotiations with the Holy See are at a very advanced stage, aiming to fully decriminalise abortion for women by the end of the current legislative term in March or April 2027—without legalising the procedure.

In recent statements to ARA in Andorra la Vella and an AFP interview, Espot reiterated that the executive's goal is decriminalisation, not legalisation, which he described as a "red line" that could threaten the co-principality system. Under the current penal code, women risk up to six months in prison for seeking an abortion, while healthcare professionals face up to three years in jail and five years of disqualification. Espot noted that no trials have ever occurred in such cases.

The push stems from Andorra's unique governance, where one head of state is the Bishop of Urgell, Monsignor Josep-Lluís Serrano Pentinat, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. Espot called the issue "very delicate" due to its ties to Catholic doctrine, explaining that restrictive laws reflect this institutional model rather than a conservative society. He pointed to Andorra's advanced gender equality laws as evidence.

A compromise would allow women to seek abortions abroad without legal repercussions in Andorra, while the procedure remains banned domestically. Espot argued this aligns with Catholic teaching, which protects life at all stages but does not demand punishment for women. "If there is no prohibition, the consequence would be legalisation," he told AFP, adding that the co-principality has ensured "centuries of peace, independence, and sovereignty."

The government seeks an institutional balance before the legislature ends, especially with Macron's visit to Andorra la Vella set for 27-28 April. The debate remains a major political challenge in one of Europe's few nations—alongside the Vatican—where voluntary pregnancy termination is totally prohibited.