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French President Visits Andorra Amid Abortion Decriminalization Debate
French President Emmanuel Macron is in Andorra to fulfill his role as co-prince. He is expected to address the country's restrictive abortion laws and support moves toward decriminalization. The visit also includes endorsement of Andorra's potential association agreement with the European Union.
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The visit occurs during ongoing policy discussions on abortion in Andorra, which maintains some of the most restrictive laws in Europe.
Andorra's prime minister, Xavier Espot Zamora, stated that he hopes to decriminalize abortion within a year, though not necessarily legalize it. The microstate's governance structure, involving a Catholic bishop as co-prince, complicates such changes.
Radio France International reported on these indications from the prime minister. During his speech as co-prince, Macron is expected to speak on the abortion issue and support the proposed changes. Andorra's public broadcaster RTVA reported that Macron confirmed the topic would feature in his speech.
Macron is also anticipated to endorse Andorra's plans to ratify an association agreement with the European Union, which could occur as early as July. Last night, Macron raised a toast to Andorra's history and international position, with political discussions held privately.
The Catholic co-prince stated, according to RTVA, that progress must be made without breaking institutional structures. The visit's ceremonial aspects included public interactions in Andorra.
Separately, the European Parliament is set to discuss the next EU budget, and the European Commission will address regulatory reforms. These events are scheduled for the same day as Macron's activities in Andorra. The date of these developments is April 28, 2026.
