World Consumer Rights Day: Know Your Five Basic Rights
Consumers browsing through products, symbolizing awareness of consumer rights.
Every year on March 15, people all around the world celebrate World Consumer Rights Day. This day is dedicated to reminding everyone about the significance of being aware of what they are buying, including the quantity and quality they deserve. World Consumer Rights Day focuses on illuminating the consumer’s rights and ensuring that everyone understands their power in the market.
2024 Theme
This year, Consumers International has chosen ‘Fair and responsible AI for consumers’ as its focus. The aim is to keep up with the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) while ensuring that it is fair to consumers. We need an AI future in which everyone’s rights are respected. The spotlight is on issues such as privacy, false information, and bias, which demonstrate how AI can impact us all.
The History Behind World Consumer Rights Day
Back in 1962, former US President John F. Kennedy talked about consumer rights for the first time. He planted the seeds that led to this day. Since 1983, March 15 has been officially recognized by the United Nations as World Consumer Rights Day. It’s a day to come together globally, hosting events to spread awareness about consumer rights.
Why World Consumer Rights Day Matters
This day isn’t just about awareness – it’s about action. Knowing our rights protects us from unfair treatment and exploitation. It also encourages us to speak up when something isn’t right and seek help if needed.
The six Basic Consumer Rights are as follows:
1. Right to Safety: As consumers, we have the right to expect safe products. Manufacturers must follow safety rules to protect us.
2. Right to be Informed: Clear and honest information about the products we are buying keeps us safe from scams.
3. Right to Choose: We should have the option to choose from a variety of products at fair prices.
4. Right to be Heard: If we are not happy with a product or service, we have the right to complain.
5. Right to Seek Redressal: If our consumer rights are violated, we can seek compensation.
6. Right to Consumer Education: Knowing our rights as consumers empowers us to make smart choices.
On this World Consumer Rights Day, let’s remember that knowing our rights isn’t just important – it’s powerful.
