Introduction

Enforcement

About

The lack of effective enforcement is a key problem in consumer protection. At the same time, it is a complex problem to tackle, as effective enforcement depends on multiple factors such as the enforcement structure and traditions at national level, strong public authorities, the economic climate, the strength and experience of consumer organisations, the possibility for easy redress etc.

In addition to national or cross-border instances, more and more infringements are of a genuinely European dimension, for instance when a large company targets consumers in many EU member states with the same or similar unfair practices.

We therefore need more cooperation among various enforcement bodies and organisations as well as to strengthen the powers and sanctions available to them.