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European Parliament condemns human rights violations in Georgia, Iran, and Mali

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Denmark to champion Ukraine’s EU bid during Council presidency

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EU and Switzerland take major step toward modernised partnership

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EYE2025: thousands of young people to celebrate democracy in Strasbourg

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EU approves Bulgaria’s eurozone membership for 2026

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What are Denmark’s goals for Its upcoming EU presidency?

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New EU strategy for a secure, prosperous, and resilient Black Sea region 

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EU Commissioner Raises Alarm on Hungary’s Rule of Law

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Switzerland to host European Political Community summit in 2027

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Latest News

European Parliament condemns human rights violations in Georgia, Iran, and Mali

European Parliament condemns human rights violations in Georgia, Iran, and Mali European Parliament condemns human rights violations in Georgia, Iran, and Mali
  On Thursday, the European Parliament adopted three resolutions addressing serious human rights abuses in Georgia, Iran, and Mali. The...
Read More...

Denmark to champion Ukraine’s EU bid during Council presidency

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  Denmark has pledged to push forward Ukraine’s EU membership efforts when it assumes the presidency of the European Council on July...
Read More...

EU and Switzerland take major step toward modernised partnership

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  The European Commission has advanced a key initiative to renew and deepen ties with Switzerland, proposing that the Council approve a...
Read More...

EYE2025: thousands of young people to celebrate democracy in Strasbourg

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  On 13 and 14 June, around 8,500 young people aged 16 to 30 from across the globe will gather at the European Parliament in Strasbourg...
Read More...

EU approves Bulgaria’s eurozone membership for 2026

EU approves Bulgaria’s eurozone membership for 2026 EU approves Bulgaria’s eurozone membership for 2026
  Brussels has officially greenlit Bulgaria’s entry into the eurozone, with the country set to adopt the euro on 1 January 2026. The...
Read More...

What are Denmark’s goals for Its upcoming EU presidency?

What are Denmark’s goals for Its upcoming EU presidency? What are Denmark’s goals for Its upcoming EU presidency?
  As Denmark prepares to assume the rotating presidency of the EU Council on July 1st, the country is setting its sights on a results-driven...
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New EU strategy for a secure, prosperous, and resilient Black Sea region 

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  The European Union has unveiled a new strategy aimed at fostering stability, security, and prosperity in the Black Sea region. This initiative...
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EU Commissioner Raises Alarm on Hungary’s Rule of Law

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  On May 27, 2025, the European Commissioner for Democracy, Michael McGrath, expressed serious concerns about the state of the rule of...
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Switzerland to host European Political Community summit in 2027

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Switzerland is set to host a summit of the European Political Community (EPC) in 2027, bringing together leaders from across the continent....
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Andorra, a small landlocked country located in the eastern Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, has long maintained a unique position in Europe. With a population of

approximately 77,000 people and a prosperous economy mainly reliant on tourism and banking, Andorra has managed to thrive without being a part of the European Union (EU). This article delves into the reasons why Andorra has chosen not to pursue EU membership, exploring the advantages and disadvantages of maintaining its current status.

Sovereignty and Independence

One of the primary reasons Andorra has been reluctant to join the EU is its commitment to maintaining its sovereignty and independence. As a small nation with a distinct culture and history, Andorra has a desire to retain control over its domestic policies, trade agreements, and economic decisions without being subject to the regulations and directives imposed by the EU.

Fiscal Autonomy

Andorra has developed a unique and advantageous fiscal system that has allowed it to attract foreign investments and foster economic growth. The country operates on a low-tax regime, which has been instrumental in attracting both tourists and multinational corporations. Becoming a member of the EU would likely require Andorra to adopt common tax policies, which might impact its competitive advantage and attractiveness as a financial hub.

Customs and Border Control

Another key aspect that sets Andorra apart from the EU is its control over customs and border regulations. Being outside the EU's customs union grants the country greater flexibility in setting its own trade policies, including tariffs and import regulations. This has contributed to Andorra's ability to negotiate advantageous trade deals with both EU and non-EU countries.

Smaller Economies' Concerns

Andorra is part of the European Economic Area (EEA) but not the EU, which allows it to access the EU's single market without being an official member. Many smaller economies like Andorra have expressed concerns about the challenges and complexities of complying with EU regulations, which are often tailored to larger member states. The fear of being overwhelmed by EU bureaucracy and the potential lack of influence in decision-making processes have made the prospect of EU membership less appealing to Andorra.

Bilateral Relations

By maintaining its current status, Andorra enjoys the flexibility to engage in bilateral relations with both EU and non-EU countries. This freedom allows the nation to pursue its interests and establish mutually beneficial agreements without being tied to EU-wide policies.

Conclusion

Despite its geographical proximity to the EU and its integration into the European Economic Area, Andorra has chosen not to pursue EU membership. The country's commitment to sovereignty, fiscal autonomy, and maintaining control over its customs and border regulations has led it to remain independent from the EU. While the benefits of EU membership are evident for many nations, Andorra's unique circumstances and priorities make it content with its current position as an autonomous nation thriving on its own terms. Photo by Tiia Monto, Wikimedia commons.

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