Strengthening cooperation between ECC-Net and Travel Net
ECC-Net met with Travel Net on 29 May, marking a significant step towards enhancing consumer advocacy in the travel sector. Travel Net is the European network of consumer complaint bodies (ADR entities) within the travel sector. During its annual member’s meeting in Copenhagen, six national ECCs represented ECC-Net and actively participated in a discussion to explore how the networks can enhance cooperation.
Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in the travel sector
The travel sector is one of the areas where ECC-Net assists the most consumers with their cross-border complaints. Therefore, it is crucial for ECC-Net to maintain a thorough understanding of the out-of-court dispute resolution options available in this sector.
Travel Net is a valuable partner because it represents some of the most significant dispute resolution entities in this field. Maintaining close cooperation with Travel Net is one of many ways that ECC-Net ensures the best possible service for the consumers who entrust the ECC Network with their cross-border complaints.
Four focus areas
During the meeting, the two networks agreed to strengthen their collaboration. Four specific areas were identified as priorities:
- Knowledge
Increased knowledge sharing at network level regarding relevant legal topics and working methods. - Service
A shared focus on improving consumers’ experience while handling complaints against companies in other EU countries. - Information
Collaboration and data sharing on network level when engaging in advocacy and submitting consultation responses to legislative initiatives related to travelling. - Development
Cooperation to expand Travel Net’s participant base even in EU countries where there are currently no affiliated ADR institutions.
Revision of EU ADR Regulations
The dialogue between ECC-Net and Travel Net is particularly relevant in the context of the ongoing revision of EU’s ADR regulations that govern European consumer complaint bodies, hereunder Travel Net’s members. The new proposal requires the establishment of ADR contact points in all EU countries to assist consumers, businesses, and ADR institutions in handling cross-border complaints.
ECC-Net is working to ensure that the role of ADR contact point is assigned to the national ECC centres in all EU countries. This role involves promoting the use of ADR and facilitating communication between the parties and the relevant ADR entity.
Want to know more?
Read our policy papers about ADR:
- ECCs Ideal Candidates for ADR Contact Points | European Consumer Centers Network (eccnet.eu)
- ADR in the Nordic and Baltic Countries | European Consumer Centers Network (eccnet.eu)
Also see our news article about ECCs as ADR contact points: Empowering ECCs as ADR Contact Points: Boosting Cross-Border Consumer Protection | European Consumer Centers Network (eccnet.eu)