Directive 2013/32/EU and the Designation of Safe Countries of Origin

Under Article 37 of the Directive 2013/32/EU, EU Member States may maintain or introduce regulations that nationally designate Safe Countries of Origin for the examination of applications for international protection.

Definition of a Safe Country of Origin

A Safe Country of Origin is one where, based on the legal situation, the enforcement of law in a democratic system, and the overall political situation, there is generally and consistently no risk of persecution, torture, inhuman or degrading treatment, or danger due to indiscriminate violence in situations of armed conflict.

New Countries Added to the List

With the Decree from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation dated May 7, 2024, the previously identified 16 countries have been confirmed, and the following countries have been added to the list: Bangladesh, Cameroon, Colombia, Egypt, Peru, and Sri Lanka.

Implications of the New List

Originating from one of these countries does not prevent one from seeking international protection in Italy, but, under the D.L. 20/2023 (known as the Cutro Decree) converted into Law 50/2023, these countries are subject to an accelerated procedure or border procedure. This procedure can be carried out directly at border or transit areas, with possibilities of detention at a CPR and with halved terms for appealing a potential rejection of the application.

Application of the Decree

The new Decree will be applicable starting May 22, 2024, and cannot be applied to applications for international protection submitted before this date by citizens of the newly added countries.

(UNICEF Photo - Bangladesh)