EUROPEAN UNION AGENCY FOR ASYLUM actually carries some or all of the characteristics and rights thought be acquired by virtue of having a certain nationality. The question of whether the applicant may actually enjoy the fundamental rights attached to nationality is considered at a later stage, when examining the possible existence of a well-founded fear of persecution or a real risk of serious harm. If the applicant is denied rights normally attached to the holding of a nationality, or cannot claim national protection, they may have a well-founded fear of persecution or a real risk of serious harm towards their country of nationality (see Section 7.2. Absence of recognition of an ex lege nationality). However, it does not negate the fact that the applicant is a national of that state, which remains the country of reference for the purpose of the assessment of the need for international protection. 40