12
October
2023

Practical Tool for Guardians — Introduction to international protection

This tool introduces newly appointed guardians to the concept of international protection, possible forms of protection recognised through the asylum procedure, the relevant legal framework and the related rights of the child. It is part of a series of four practical tools for guardians of unaccompanied children with international protection needs. The objective is to support guardians in their daily tasks and responsibilities during the asylum procedure, including the procedure under the Regulation (EU) No 604/2013 (Dublin III regulation) and temporary protection. The tools have been developed by the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA).
Overview

International protection is the way in which states protect third-country nationals when they are at risk of persecution or serious harm in their country of nationality or habitual residence (if stateless). A person may be in need of international protection if they are afraid to return to their country of origin or habitual residence because they have a well-founded fear of persecution due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group or they are at risk of suffering serious harm.

In this report:

  1. What is international protection?
  2. What are the main principles of international protection?
  3. What is the legal framework related to children's rights in international protection?
  4. What do I need to do as a guardian to support the child applying for international protection?