The decision-making process can be viewed as a two-step process: evidence assessment (establishing the facts) and legal assessment (applying the law). After establishing the factual circumstances (see EASO Practical Guide: Evidence assessment), the case officer will assess whether the substantive conditions laid down in the QD for granting international protection are met. This practical guide focuses on the second step.

Step 1 should result in clear understanding as to which material facts are accepted (credibility assessment) and, based on those facts, the degree of likelihood for the applicant to be subjected to treatment which could amount to persecution or serious harm (risk assessment).