World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) is observed annually across the globe on March 15 to raise global awareness about consumer rights, protection, and empowerment. Consumers are the economy’s backbone; safeguarding their rights ensures ethical practices and empowers informed choices.
- The theme for WCRD 2025 is “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles” emphasizes the necessity of making sustainable and healthy lifestyle choices accessible, affordable, and equitable for all consumers.
Background:
i.WCRD was inspired by a special message sent by John F. Kennedy, the former President of the United States of America (USA), to the USA Congress on March 15, 1962.
- He became the first world leader to formally recognize the importance of consumer rights on a global stage.
ii.The first-ever WCRD was observed on March 15, 1983, in alignment with John F. Kennedy’s call for the protection and acknowledgment of consumer rights.
Note: WCRD enjoys global recognition and support from international organizations such as the United Nations (UN) and other global entities, promoting consumer rights worldwide.
Basic Consumer Rights by John F. Kennedy:
In 1962, former USA President John F. Kennedy articulated four fundamental consumer rights, which are:
- The Right to Safety: Protection against hazardous products that could harm health or life.
- The Right to Be Informed: The right to access accurate information about products and services.
- The Right to Choose: The ability to choose from a variety of products and services at competitive prices.
- The Right to Be Heard: Consumers’ interests should be taken into account in the formulation of government policy.
Evolution and Adoption of UNGCP:
i.Initial Adoption (1985): After global consultations, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the UN Guidelines for Consumer Protection (UNGCP) in April 1985.
ii.Subsequent Updates: The guidelines were later updated in 1999 and 2015 to further support consumer protection worldwide.
Key Resolutions and Initiatives:
i.At the 6th United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) held from February 26–March 1, 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, a resolution promoting sustainable lifestyles was adopted.
- This resolution, championed by India and inspired by its Mission LiFE (Lifestyles for Environment) initiative, emphasizes the role of individual behavior change in achieving sustainable development.
ii.UNEA-7 is set for December 2025 to assess progress and reinforce commitments. Conference of the Parties (COP30) will convene in Brazil in November 2025, focusing on sustainable living.
iii.Consumers International, at COP29, advocated for integrating sustainable living into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), urging governments to address consumption-related commitments in climate strategies.
- These initiatives aim to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, addressing current shortcomings.
2025 Events:
On the occasion of WCRD, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) hosted a webinar, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the UN Guidelines for Consumer Protection.
- The session reflected on the guidelines’ impact in shaping global consumer policies and discussed emerging challenges in consumer protection.
Points to Note:
i.A study involving 30,000 consumers across 31 countries found that 94% support a shift to more sustainable lifestyles.
ii.Over 80% of consumers feel they need stronger support from governments, businesses, and international organizations to make sustainable lifestyles more available, accessible, and affordable.
About Consumers International(CI):
CI was formerly known as the International Organisation of Consumers Unions (IOCU).
Director General (DG)– Helena Leurent
Headquarters– London, the United Kingdom (UK)
Established– 1960
