Andorra to Reform Labour Laws for ICESCR Ratification

The Andorran government has acknowledged that ratifying the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) will require updates to labour legislation to fully align with its requirements.

Andorra signed the covenant on 23 September during the United Nations General Assembly. The agreement now awaits ratification by the Consell General, in line with constitutional procedures. Accompanying the ratification process are detailed reports assessing Andorra's current laws against the covenant's obligations. Once ratified, Andorra must submit periodic reports to the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, which will review compliance and issue non-binding recommendations.

The reports, prepared by officials including Laura Vilella, director of the Employment and Labour Department, highlight several labour areas needing improvement to preempt potential UN scrutiny. These primarily concern Article 8, which covers trade union rights, collective bargaining and the right to strike. While the government maintains that Andorra has a "modern and adequate legal framework" for union freedom and collective bargaining compatible with the ICESCR, it notes that collective representation has historically been limited. A legislative reform, agreed upon by unions and employers, is underway and described as a "clear step" towards full compliance. Officials stress that its enactment and practical implementation, with real participation mechanisms, will be essential.

Further gaps include expanding paternity leave under Article 10.2, which protects maternity and childhood in employment. Andorra already offers strong safeguards for maternity and work-life balance, but reports suggest room to extend permissions, particularly for fathers—a related bill is in progress. Regulations on employment for minors also warrant review, as current laws grant labour authorities discretion to approve contracts, potentially lacking sufficient legal certainty.

On occupational health and safety, Andorra largely meets standards, but significant regulations remain undeveloped for broader environmental risks—such as biological or chemical hazards, physical agents, carcinogens and mutagens—as well as emerging psychosocial threats like workplace stress.

In other areas, the Education Ministry confirms equitable access to schooling without discrimination, while the Culture Department affirms constitutional and policy guarantees for cultural participation. The Foreign Affairs Ministry outlines that post-ratification reports will detail rights implementation, adopted measures and encountered challenges, with opportunities for Andorra to respond to committee recommendations.