CONSUMERS : CREATING DISPUTE RESOLUTION MECHANISMS.

In the field of consumer policy, the Danish EU Presidency's main task will be to initiate discussions on the new proposals for creation of an out-of-court dispute resolution mechanism and a second mechanism for online disputes. This ties in well with Copenhagen's intention to place the accent on the digital single market during its turn at the helm of the Union.

The draft directive, presented on 29 November 2011, aims to ensure the existence of non-judicial entities with competence to hear disputes on contracts between companies and consumers and to allow consumers to obtain redress through the intervention of a mediator or a complaints board. The draft regulation will set up a single European platform for online resolution of disputes related to purchases made via the internet in another member state.

In parallel, the Danish Presidency will try to seal an...