Publications

IBAN discrimination still fragments Europe’s Single Market. Despite clear rules in the SEPA and Geo-blocking Regulations and the Payment Accounts Directive guaranteeing equal treatment of all EU bank accounts, many businesses and administrations continue to refuse non-domestic IBANs. ECC-Net calls for swift, consistent enforcement to uphold consumers’ rights and unlock the full potential of Europe’s payments market.

Since 2005, the ECC Network has worked to protect consumer rights across the EU, Norway, and Iceland. With independent centres in 29 countries, we provide free assistance to resolve disputes related to cross-border purchases. This year, we celebrate 20 years of empowering consumers in the Single Market. We invite you to travel through time with us and explore the initiatives that ECCs have taken throughout the years.

The European Commission and the Polish EU presidency are advancing efforts to enhance passenger rights in air transport, a move welcomed by the European Consumer Centres Network (ECC-Net). However, concerns persist about the adequacy of proposed revisions to Regulation 261/2004, especially in light of past crises like COVID-19. Insights from the Court of Justice of the European Union are crucial for guiding these updates. As discussions within the Passenger Mobility Package continue, many key issues remain unresolved. ECC-Net stresses the need for a comprehensive revision that prioritizes transparency and care, addressing challenges like flight disruptions and airline bankruptcies.

This report provides a concise overview of the European Consumer Centres Network’s activities in 2024. It highlights the significant impact of our legal experts, who assisted nearly 134,000 European consumers and successfully resolved disputes, recovering almost 8 million euros through amicable solutions. Additionally, it showcases our key achievements, expert insights, and ongoing initiatives.

Sea travel is an essential part of Europe’s interconnected transportation system. However, the European Consumer Centres Network (ECC-Net) has identified key areas where passenger rights could be improved. This policy paper addresses the challenges faced by maritime travellers, including unclear regulations, insufficient support during disruptions, and inconsistent compensation practices. The actionable recommendations outlined in this paper aim to enhance transparency, accountability, and fairness in sea travel, in line with the EU’s broader objectives for consumer protection and seamless cross-border mobility.

Bus travel is a cornerstone of Europe’s sustainable mobility ambitions, and the EU has made remarkable progress in safeguarding passengers’ rights. Yet, the European Consumer Centres Network (ECC-Net) has pinpointed opportunities to elevate current regulations and meet passengers’ needs more effectively, particularly in areas like baggage handling, communication standards, and compensation practices. This policy paper presents empowering recommendations that can enrich existing frameworks, paving the way for a fairer and more seamless travel experience for all bus passengers across the EU.