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.

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.

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.

The European Union has been consistently enhancing consumer rights in e-commerce over the past few decades. While consumers are well-protected against unfair business practices in many respects, the European Consumer Centres Network (ECC-Net) has identified a range of issues linked to the increasing prevalence of 'dropshipping' companies. Therefore, ECC-Net has published a policy paper that addresses the challenges connected with dropshipping.

In the rapidly growing e-commerce sector, efficient and reliable parcel delivery is essential. Despite extensive EU legislation aimed at protecting consumers, delivery and return issues continue to generate numerous complaints. These complaints are not due to gaps or ambiguities in the law but result from traders failing to comply with existing regulations. In this paper the ECC-Net has identified key areas of concern and proposes recommendations to enhance consumer protection.