ENHANCING CONSUMER RIGHTS THROUGH THE INTEGRATION OF DIGITAL TOOLS IN THE EUROPEAN PUBLIC SPHERE

Abstract

Effective consumer protection policies are essential for the proper and efficient functioning of the single market. The European public sphere must ensure consumer rights vis- à-vis traders and provide enhanced protection by leveraging digital tools, particularly for consumers as vulnerable parties in contractual agreements. Robust consumer protection regulations can significantly improve market outcomes, contributing to fairer markets and higher quality information dissemination, which in turn supports better environmental and social market outcomes. Empowering consumers and safeguarding their safety and economic interests have become central objectives of EU policy. This paper aims to outline a series of progressive steps necessary for prioritizing consumer rights protection within any country’s economy. It offers an indepth analysis of the importance of digital tools in safeguarding consumer rights, examining effective consumer protection legislation, enforcement institutions, and redress systems. The study focuseson evaluating and comparing consumer protection norms within the legal framework, aiming to identify relevant digital tools for the European public sphere. Additionally, the research investigates the application of legal provisions in the context of measures taken by authorities in response to consumer rights violations, emphasizing the transition from traditional to digital tools for consumer rights empowerment. The paper concludes by identifying various informal digital consumer protection tools that, while not directly regulated by law, are rapidly evolving alongside technological advancements.