Consumer Representation: Recognition Criteria

Author

Élisabeth Gibeau

Organization

Union des consommateurs

Published

2009

Summary

We find more and more decision-making bodies, nationally and internationally, where the participation of consumer representatives is solicited: issue tables, economic regulatory agencies, standards development organizations, self-regulating organizations, etc. This participation has become essential in applying principles of governance, and it improves the credibility and effectiveness of mechanisms for developing policies, standards and regulations. What are the criteria for choosing organizations or persons who will defend or express the concerns of consumers? How to ensure the competence and independence of those representatives? How to ensure their accountability? Do the organizations have standardized criteria for guaranteeing the representativeness of those who will defend consumers? Would consumers not be better served if such criteria were widely disseminated and applied? Would consumers’ trust not be strengthened if those criteria were made known to them and the criteria’s application were assured? The present study attempts to answer these questions, with the goal of launching a debate on the importance of using objective criteria to ensure the representativeness, competence and legitimacy of those who play the essential role of promoting and defending consumer interests and reinforcing public trust in consultation and consensus-building proceedings.

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OCA Funded Research
This research received funding support through the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program.

Contact information

Source: Consumer Policy Research Database