Protezione internazionale (international protection)

Protezione internazionale (international protection) is a legal status granted to people fleeing persecution, war or serious threats in their country of origin. In Italy it covers refugee status and subsidiary protection. The national system of international protection is based on international conventions and on European and national law.

Types of international protection

1. Refugee status (Status di rifugiato)

This form of protection is granted to people who are persecuted in their own country because of their:

• race,
• religion,
• nationality,
• membership of a particular social group,
• political opinions.

Refugees are protected under the UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees (the 1951 Geneva Convention). Once granted this status, a person has the right to reside in Italy, to social benefits and to access to the labour market, health care and education.

1. Subsidiary protection (Protezione sussidiaria)

This form of protection is granted to people who do not qualify for refugee status, but where there are substantial grounds for believing that, if they returned home, they would face a real risk of serious harm, in particular:

• the death penalty,
• torture or inhuman treatment,
• a serious threat to life because of armed conflict or violence.

People granted subsidiary protection have rights similar to those of refugees, although this status may be reviewed if circumstances in the country of origin change.

How to apply for international protection

In Italy the procedure for granting international protection is governed by European Union law and national legislation. These are the main stages:

1. Submitting the application: a person seeking international protection must apply to the border police or at one of the reception centres for asylum seekers. The application is registered and the applicant is recorded, after which they receive a temporary document allowing them to stay in the country while their case is examined.
2. Personal interview: after the application has been submitted, the applicant is called for an interview before the Commissione Territoriale (Territorial Commission). Here they must explain in detail why they fled and provide information confirming the threat to their life in their country of origin.
3. The Commission’s decision: the Territorial Commission decides whether to grant or refuse international protection. If the decision is positive, the applicant receives refugee status or subsidiary protection. If it is refused, the person may appeal.

Rights of people granted international protection

People granted international protection are entitled to:

• A residence permit: the permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) for refugees is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.
• Employment: access to the labour market on the same terms as Italian citizens.
• Health care: access to the national health service (Servizio sanitario nazionale).
• Education: the children of people granted international protection have the right to education in Italy.
• Social benefits: the possibility of receiving social assistance if the person meets the requirements.
• Family reunification: refugees have the right to bring members of their family to Italy.

Protection and integration

Italy also offers integration programmes for people granted international protection. These include Italian language courses, vocational training and social support. Adapting to local society, finding work and taking part in community life are key to successful integration.

Conclusion

International protection in Italy plays an important role in safeguarding the rights and safety of people forced to flee persecution and threats in their own country. The Italian protection system allows them to integrate into society by giving them access to fundamental social and economic rights.