1724342 (Refugee)

The applicant sought a protection visa, claiming fear of harm in Ethiopia due to his mental illness, his conversion to Islam, and his past political affiliations. The dispute concerned whether these claims established a real risk of significant harm, thereby entitling him to protection. The case was before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

The Tribunal was required to determine if the applicant faced a real risk of significant harm if returned to Ethiopia, considering his claims related to severe major depressive disorder and the inadequate mental health services available in Ethiopia. It also had to assess the risk arising from his conversion to Islam, which was met with disapproval by his Christian family and relatives, and his alleged past membership in the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD), a political opposition party. The Tribunal was mandated to consider relevant policy guidelines and country information.

The Tribunal considered the applicant's mental health claims in light of the severe stigma, lack of resources, and inadequate treatment for mental illness in Ethiopia, as detailed in the provided country information and the applicant's own evidence. It also examined the risk posed by his family's disapproval of his religious conversion and the potential for harm from relatives. Furthermore, the Tribunal assessed the credibility of his political claims, noting inconsistencies and the applicant's uncooperative behaviour during the process, which was considered consistent with his diagnosed mental health condition. The Tribunal found that the applicant's behaviour, including resistance to attending hearings and postponements due to medical conditions, was consistent with his diagnosis.

Ultimately, the Tribunal remitted the decision for reconsideration. This indicates that the initial decision did not adequately address the applicant's claims or that further assessment was required to determine if he met the criteria for a protection visa.