Territorial Commission for Asylum
Plain English
It's the body that decides asylum applications in Italy. Each commissione is regional, made up of representatives from the Ministry of the Interior, a prefettura official, a local official, and a UNHCR observer. They interview the applicant and issue a decision.
Why it matters
It\'s the gatekeeper for refugee status, subsidiary protection, and special protection. The interview and decision shape the whole future of an asylum case.
Real example
"After more than a year in a CAS in Foggia, Tewodros was finally called to the Commissione Territoriale di Bari for his interview. The decision came a few months later."
Common confusion
Negative decisions can be appealed to a specialised tribunal section. The appeal route, timelines, and legal aid all matter, so getting a lawyer early is usually a good idea.
Official source
Ministero dell'Interno