Coming off of National Consumer Protection Week, this Friday, March 15th, is another cause for celebration: World Consumer Rights Day 2013. Celebrated annually since 1983, March 15th marks the date in history (in 1962) that President John F. Kennedy first outlined the definition of consumer rights.
World Consumer Rights Day is a global day of action that serves as an opportunity to promote the basic rights of all consumers and to unite and campaign under a common theme.
This year’s theme “Consumer Justice Now!” encourages consumers to “expose the very real damage caused by poor or non-existent consumer protection around the world. Whether it is faulty products causing injury, utility service providers ignoring complaints, or irresponsible lending by banks, better consumer protection is always part of the solution.”
This year’s theme also aligns with the update of the UN Guidelines on Consumer Protection, which will take place in 2014 and will impact issues such as financial services, energy, and consumer representation. This makes 2013 a key time for consumer action and influence.
For the past three years, WCRD has celebrated themes such as “our money, our rights” and “consumers for fair financial services.”
Whether or not you plan to take action this March 15th, it is imperative that you know your rights as a consumer, especially surrounding such prevalent issues as credit, debt, and identity theft. Take advantage of American Consumer Credit Counseling’s free downloadable resources such as 20 Steps to Financial Health, Understanding Credit Reports, and Taking Charge: What To Do If Your Identity is Stolen to enhance your knowledge and better understand your financial rights. Also, visit ACCC’s Financial Fitness Center for additional educational resources to help you build a solid financial knowledge.
By knowing your rights and staying informed and educated, you will be able to make the best possible decisions for a financially healthy life.
