This EMN focussed study provides insights into the scale and scope of the issue of establishing identity.  It focusses on the issue within the framework of two different procedures: the procedure for international protection, and the forced return of rejected applicants to their country of origin.

The study summarizes the challenges, legislation, practice and policy regarding this subject. The report also provides some statistical data.

These are the main questions addressed:

• Is the issue of establishing identity in the absence of credible documentation considered a problem and what are the challenges and difficulties?
• Is the process of determining identity within the procedure for international protection and whitin the procedure for the forced return of rejected applicants laid down in legislation?
• Which national autorities have the operational responsibility for establishing the identity?
• What definition of identity is used and what types of documents are accepted as contributing to establishing the identity?
• What methods are used to establish the identity in the absence of documentary evidence of identity?
• How does the outcome of the identification methods affect the decison-making process?
• What are the conclusions relevant for policymakers at national and EU level?

The national contributions to this EMN focussed study of other member states of the EU can be found on this link.