Cross-Border Consumer Protection And Digital Enforcement: The Role Of Regulatory Frameworks And Technological Integration
- IJLLR Journal
- Aug 18
- 1 min read
Ms. Krupa Naik, V.E.S. College of Law
ABSTRACT
In an era marked by rapid globalization and digital transformation, cross- border consumer protection has emerged as a critical concern for regulators, businesses, and consumers alike. The increasing complexity of international e-commerce transactions necessitates robust frameworks to safeguard consumer rights across jurisdictions. This paper explores the role of international cooperation, policy harmonization, and technological innovation in addressing the challenges posed by cross-border consumer disputes.
It analyzes key initiatives such as the European Consumer Centers Network (ECC-Net), the efforts of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the resolutions of the Sixth Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Consumer Law and Policy. Special focus is given to Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platforms used by global corporations like eBay, PayPal, and Airbnb, which illustrate the effectiveness of digital tools in resolving consumer grievances.
Moreover, the paper highlights the importance of comprehensive agreements like the India-EU Broad-Based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) in developing regulatory frameworks that facilitate fair trade and protect consumers in cross-border contexts. Technological advancements— particularly AI-driven fraud detection systems and IoT-enabled product safety monitoring—are examined as essential tools in modern consumer rights enforcement.
By critically analyzing these case studies and frameworks, the research underscores the need for harmonized legal standards, increased digital literacy, and sustained international collaboration to create a consumer- centric digital economy. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on making consumer protection inclusive, efficient, and adaptable to evolving global trends.
Keywords: Cross-border consumer protection, Online Dispute Resolution (ODR), ECC-Net, AI in consumer law, IoT and product safety, UNCTAD, India-EU BTIA, e-commerce regulation.
