What is the problem? Giving EU consumers to access to "collective redress"

Illegal online behaviour by a single trader can seriously damage the interests of a large number of consumers. But enforcement of rights in the digital environment can be difficult for consumers. Uncertainty and perceived difficulty to access redress is an important factor undermining confidence in electronic commerce. Mechanisms of "collective redress" could be considered to remedy the shortcomings of the current situation.

Why is EU action needed? To develop a coherent EU approach In the EU today, 14 countries allow consumers to collectively claim damages. But the existing mechanisms vary widely throughout the EU; there are no two national systems that are alike. The consultation should help identify which forms of collective redress could fit into the EU legal system and in which fields collective redress could have an added value for improving the enforcement of EU law. The consultation should also elaborate common principles which any possible future EU legislation in this area would have to respect.

This action is related to the initiative on Alternative Dispute Resolution (Action 14).

What will the Commission do ?

The European Commission will:

In 2011:

• Launch a public web-based consultation on a coherent European approach towards collective redress.
• Issue a Commission Communication reporting on the results of the public consultation. -

More information

Contact:

ken.ducatel@ec.europa.eu