Introduction to country of origin information

Key information

 

 This module is being substantially revised in view of the New pact on migration and asylum.

  

 Target Audience with solid fill

Target group


Asylum officers, in particular case officers & COI researchers

Pyramid with levels with solid fill

EQF/MQF level


Level 5

Presentation with bar chart with solid fill

Version


Version 1 (2025)

Hourglass 30% with solid fill

Entry requirements


Full qualification at EQF Level 4 or equivalent

Diploma with solid fill


Prerequisites


n/a

Remote learning language with solid fill

Assessment


Multiple-choice questions, case scenario and a source validity assessment.

 

Learning outcomes & description

 

DESCRIPTION

The aim of this module is to provide learners with basic knowledge on Country of Origin Information (COI), its relevance and limitations in the context of international protection, including focusing on quality standards applied in the COI research cycle. It also focuses on the categories and formulation of appropriate COI questions, as well as, on the examination of the most frequently used COI Sources and source assessment.  
This module focuses on developing learners' ability to identify the role of Country of Origin Information (COI), formulate relevant COI questions, and assess the validity of COI sources in the context of international protection. Through a structured learning path divided into three online sub-modules, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of COI’s function, its legal framework, and the application of quality standards in COI research. The module emphasizes practical skills, including evaluating sources, preparing COI questions, and applying EU-established quality criteria, ensuring that learners can effectively support asylum procedures with high-quality COI.

 

LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of this module, the learner will be able to:

Knowledge

  1. Identify the role of COI and its quality standards in the context of international protection
  2. Identify the legal concepts for which COI research should be conducted, when dealing with an international protection claim

    Skill

  3. Apply the relevant quality standards when dealing with Country of Origin Information Questions

    Competence

  4. Assess the validity of COI sources in the context of international protection

 

DELIVERY METHOD

The module uses a blended learning approach. It features interactive elements such as animations, voiceovers, and scenarios to engage learners in COI research and source assessment.

 

ASSESSMENT STRATEGY

The assessment includes multiple-choice questions, a case scenario on legal concepts and COI questions, and a source validity assessment.
Accredited module details

 

Accredited module

Duration
15 hours online learning
Number of ECTS
2
Language
English
Assessment
Yes, including 3 hours assessment
Language versions (Not carrying ECTS)
n/a

 

Training plan 2025

 

Training plan

Target group

Loc.

Est. time for online studies

Reg. deadline

Online 

Webinar / Face to face

Assessment

Learners curriculum (Pending accreditation)
Asylum staff
Malta
15 hours
12/8/2025
23/9 to 10/10/2025
15-16/10/2025
31/10/2025