Publications
Want to know more about EU consumer rights, current and future challenges consumers face or about ECC-Net? This page provides an overview of position papers, research reports, information resources and anniversary reports.
ECC-Net Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Since 2005, the ECC Network (ECC-Net) has been dedicated to protecting consumer rights across the EU, Norway, and Iceland. Visit our anniversary page to discover various initiatives undertaken by ECC-Net and local ECCs over 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.
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.
Car-Pass offers numerous benefits for both buyers and sellers of vehicles abroad. It is an established solution in certain European countries, aiming to combat odometer tampering in the used car market. Implemented in Belgium and the Netherlands, Car-Pass provides a certificate to buyers at the time of sale, verifying the vehicle's mileage accuracy.
ECC-Net notes an urgent need for revision of Air Passenger Rights Regulation (EU) 261/2004. In ECC-Net's experience, has become increasingly difficult to apply the rights foreseen by the EU legislation and case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) through amicable agreements.
This study highlights the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) entities available in the air passenger rights sector all over the EU, Iceland and Norway. It compares practices and provides suggestions to improve the system and to better coordinate ADR with other stakeholders.