The European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Luxembourg has ruled that the risk of becoming a target of family blood vengeance in another country, on its own, does not constitute sufficient grounds for obtaining asylum or other forms of protection in Europe. However, this decision may conflict with other court rulings on similar matters.
The court reviewed the case following a request from the Austrian Administrative Court, which sought clarification on the application of European legislation.
According to the ECJ’s ruling, to qualify for protection status, an applicant must meet specific criteria, including a well-founded fear of persecution in their country of origin based on race, nationality, political beliefs, religion, or membership in a particular social group facing threats.
The ECJ emphasized that belonging to such a group is determined by whether the society in the country of origin perceives it as distinct due to social, moral, or legal norms. Family members involved in property or other disputes do not fall under these criteria.
A year ago, the ECJ issued a separate ruling stating that refugees may be granted protection if their return to their home country has become impossible due to a deterioration in the situation after their departure.
