Improving the EU's Proposals for Extra-Judicial Consumer Redress
(2012) 23 (2) Computers and Law 26-29.
7 Pages Posted: 10 Aug 2014
Date Written: August 8, 2012
Abstract
It outlines the recent proposals for ODR and makes constructive suggestions for improvements which will increase consumer confidence and take-up.
In the February/March issue of Computers & Law, Darin Thompson discussed two recent European Commission legislative proposals: (i) a Directive ensuring coverage, quality standards and information requirements on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and (ii) a Regulation on Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) establishing a web-site platform that is expected to be fully operational by 2015. Both proposals are due to be adopted into law by the end of 2012, and implemented in all Member States 18 months later. Darin noted that these initiatives aim to ensure a higher level of consumer protection, which is hoped to result in enhancing cross-border e-commerce within the Internal Market. But will they achieve their purpose or will consumer rights become sidelined in ADR processes? The aim of this article is to sketch a number of recommendations while considering the ongoing negotiations in the European Parliament and the Council that will contribute towards a successful implementation of these two important initiatives.
Keywords: ODR, ADR, consumer redress
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