On the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day, we invite you to read the column written by our Senior Associate from the Public Law and Regulated Markets Group, Gonzalo Bravo, on the four pillars of consumer law.
When providers act with professionalism and transparency, and consumers exercise their rights in an informed manner, mutual trust is strengthened, laying the foundation for a more balanced and conscientious society.
World Consumer Rights Day is a commemoration that should not go unnoticed, as at some point, we all take on the role of consumers. This day traces its origins to a statement made by U.S. President John F. Kennedy on March 15, 1963, in a speech before Congress. On that occasion, he emphasized the importance of recognizing and protecting the rights of people who purchase goods and services, establishing the foundation for what we now identify as fundamental consumer rights.
Kennedy outlined four key pillars: Safety, Free Choice, Information, and the Right to Be Heard. More than sixty years later, these principles remain highly relevant, are explicitly recognized in regulations, and serve as the foundation for consumer protection laws worldwide.
Given that these principles remain fully in force, World Consumer Rights Day allows us to reflect not only on consumption as a private exchange between consumers and providers but also on its broader significance as an activity that must align with overarching societal goals, such as protecting consumer rights and ensuring economic well-being.
Therefore, this day is not merely a call for providers to uphold these fundamental principles. It is a broader call for collective responsibility—an appeal to authorities, businesses, and citizens to actively engage in developing solutions that promote and safeguard these principles. Ideally, this should be done in an impartial and apolitical manner, independent of government decisions or hasty measures that could undermine the significant progress achieved in recent years.
With the recent massive blackout, the risks of fraud in purchasing goods and services, and the rapid expansion of e-commerce, both consumers and providers face increasing vulnerabilities. It is essential to have legal tools that allow both parties to protect their interests and address unexpected challenges.
Ultimately, this day reminds us that consumer relationships are not static. Consumers are often at a disadvantage compared to providers, who possess technical expertise, more information, and greater control over the marketplace. However, businesses also face unforeseen circumstances beyond their control that can affect the provision of goods and services. Both interests must be carefully weighed within a framework that prioritizes the common good. When providers act with professionalism and transparency, and consumers exercise their rights in an informed manner, mutual trust is strengthened, laying the foundation for a more balanced and conscientious society.
Column written by:
Gonzalo Bravo | Senior Associate | gbravo@az.cl
