What is World Consumer Rights Day and When Is It?
Every year on March 15, the world celebrates Consumer Rights Day. This is a day that acknowledges the inherent rights that consumers have when purchasing a good or service. As a consumer in a globally connected economy, this day should mean something to you. In this article, we’ll share why as we uncover the origins of World Consumer Rights Day, what it encompasses, and how you can take part in it.
What is the History of World Consumer Rights Day?
World Consumer Rights Day was first observed on March 15, 1983, to mark the anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s address to the US Congress in 1962. It was here that JFK outlined the four basic consumer rights: the right to choose, to be heard, to safety, and to be informed. Although these rights exist, many consumers are unaware of them, which is why it’s so important to stay informed.
What is the Theme for World Consumer Rights Day this Year?
Around the world, each country has its own variation and definition of consumer rights and what is protected by law. As a global organization, Consumers International hosts events and chooses a theme each year to expand awareness for consumers. The theme for 2024 is “Fair and Responsible AI for consumers“.* As AI increasingly influences goods and services in today’s society, it’s important that we advocate for ethical AI that upholds consumer rights.
What Are Consumer Rights?
For some, shopping is fun. For others, it’s based on necessity. But for all, there are rights involved in the process. Consumer rights refer to the rights consumers have when they buy goods or services. These include the right to safety, to be informed, to choose, to be heard, to redress, and to consumer education.
That is, when you go to make a purchase, you’re entitled to a lot more than you may think. For starters, the information about the product should be disclosed. This includes details on where the product was manufactured, how to care for it, and what safety features to be aware of. As a consumer, you have the right to choose whether you want to buy something or not. You also have the right to representation in case something goes wrong.
While some purchases may be quick and easy, others may require more due diligence. Think about what it’s like to buy a car, purchase a home or even, take out a loan. Larger purchases and investments like these require consumers to do a bit more research, especially when contracts are involved. Consumer rights are put in place to help provide peace of mind, especially in situations like these.
What Are My Rights When Buying Goods or Services?
Your rights when buying goods or services typically include the right to a refund, replacement, or repair if the goods are faulty or not as described. You also may have the right to cancel a contract within a certain period. Lastly, you have the right to clear and accurate information about the goods or services you’re purchasing.
Why Does World Consumer Rights Day Matter?
While it’s hopefully not often, there could be a chance that your rights as a consumer may have been violated. Without knowing you have these rights, you may be unaware that you could have the protection needed to obtain justice or recuperate your potential losses. In fact, that’s why consumer protection laws exist. These laws are geared towards securing a reliable market economy. This is especially necessary and useful in a country like the United States that operates under a free market economy.
As such, sellers of goods and products legally have to remain honest and transparent with their sales. These rights and laws exist so that consumers can make purchases with the knowledge and security that they’re receiving what they paid for. At the same time, these rights help to protect against scams, fraud, data breaches, and more. If something does go wrong, then consumers can take action and have the right to do so.
What Are Some Examples of Consumer Rights Violations?
Examples of violations include misleading advertising, selling unsafe products, unfair contract terms, refusing to honor warranties, and providing poor-quality goods or services.
How Can I File a Complaint About a Company Violating My Consumer Rights?
You can file a complaint with consumer protection agencies, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States. You can also seek legal advice or contact a consumer rights organization for assistance.
What Are Some Consumer Rights Organizations?
Some organizations include Consumer Reports, Consumers International, Public Citizen, and the National Consumer Law Center.
How Can I Get Involved in World Consumer Right Day?
You can get involved in many ways! Consider participating in events and activities organized by consumer rights organizations or sharing information about consumer rights on social media. It could even be as simple as educating others about their consumer rights.
An Informed Consumer Is a Safe Consumer
How Can I Protect My Consumer Rights?
You can protect yourself by being informed about your rights, reading and understanding the terms and conditions of purchases, keeping records of transactions, and filing complaints with relevant authorities when you believe your rights may have been violated.
To help protect your consumer rights when shopping online, you should read and understand the terms and conditions of the website, use secure payment methods, keep records of your transactions, and be cautious of scams and fraudulent websites.
Helpful Tips for Consumers
Before you go, it’s also good to know that:
- You have the right to options, meaning that when you shop for a product, there’s freedom to choose between alternatives.
- If you’ve been a victim of unfair trade practices, you may have the right to compensation.
- When making a purchase, you have the right to know everything about the good or service, including quantity, potency, quality, price, ingredients, etc.
World Consumer Rights Day is a reminder that consumers have the power to make a difference. By being informed, advocating for change, and holding businesses accountable, we can ensure that consumer rights are respected and protected. This year let’s celebrate by raising awareness and standing up for our rights as consumers. And now that you know your consumer rights, you can rest assured that the next time you consider making a purchase, you can do so from a well-informed approach!
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