World Consumer Rights Day

Joan Agie
Dec 22, 2023 By Joan Agie
Originally Published on Feb 14, 2022
Fact-checked by Amanpreet Kaur
Learn about World Consumer Rights Day.

Where is World Consumer Rights Day celebrated?

This day is observed worldwide.

Who is World Consumer Rights Day celebrated by?

 The celebration includes consumers, shopkeepers, and business associations.

When did World Consumer Rights Day first start?

 This day was first observed in 1983.

Who started World Consumer Rights Day?

 US President John F Kennedy's message to US Congress sparked the celebrations of this national day on March 15.

History And Timeline

Consumers have the right to know about the goods and services they wish to purchase. Let's take a look at a brief history of the day.

International Organization of Consumers Unions Was Started

The International Organization of Consumers Unions (IOCU) was started by Elizabeth Schadee. This organization later became Consumers International.

1960

John F. Kennedy Addressed The Issue

President John F. Kennedy addressed the US Congress on consumer rights. He emphasized the right to be informed, the right to be heard, safety, and the right to choose for all consumers.

1962

World Consumer Rights Day Was Announced

For the first time in history, a day was dedicated to spreading the word about buyers' rights.

1983

General Guidelines Were Approved

General guidelines for the protection of consumers were approved by the United Nations.

1985

Plastic Pollution Theme

The theme for 2021 was to tackle plastic pollution. Plastic pollution is one of the most serious issues that the world is facing today. It aimed to highlight the gravity of plastic pollution and find sustainable solutions for the plastics crisis. Other pressing issues have been themes of previous celebrations.

2021

Traditions And Customs

On this day, people talk about consumers' rights and spread consumer awareness.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate World Consumer Rights Day

The best way to celebrate this day is by learning and discovering more about consumer rights and taking a step to spread awareness.

Different countries have different rules and policies; knowing them would help you make informed decisions. Attending online seminars and participating in campaigns are other ways of celebrating this day. You can raise your voice on plastic pollution and other impacts of the buyer consumer relationship on the environment.

Facts And Stats

  • This day is necessary to educate people about their consumer rights and stop fraudulent activities. It emphasizes the need for the Consumer Protection Act.
  • This day is important to prevent exploitation and unfair practices. This day plays a critical role in promoting sustainable consumption and draws attention to issues that affect the world such as plastic pollution.
  • To ensure that consumers are always protected, raising consumer awareness is the first and most important step. That makes this day very important.

Why is World Consumer Rights Day celebrated?

This day plays a critical role in the consumer movement to make us aware of social injustices and our rights as consumers. 

Who started World Consumer Rights Day?

American President John F. Kennedy started this day by addressing the most pressing issues.

When is World Consumer Rights Day?

This day is observed annually on March 15.

What is the significance of World Consumer Rights Day?

This day not only makes people aware of their rights as consumers but also helps to promote sustainable consumption. The theme highlights some of the most pressing issues like the plastics crisis.

How do people celebrate World Consumer Rights Day?

People can attend the many events that are organized by consumer rights groups to know more about their rights. 

What is the history and origins of World Consumer Rights Day?

The importance of the rights of consumers was first highlighted by United States President Kennedy in his speech to Congress in 1962. 

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Sunday, March 15, 2020
  • Monday, March 15, 2021
  • Tuesday, March 15, 2022
  • Wednesday, March 15, 2023
  • Friday, March 15, 2024

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Written by Joan Agie

Bachelor of Science specializing in Human Anatomy

Joan Agie picture

Joan AgieBachelor of Science specializing in Human Anatomy

With 3+ years of research and content writing experience across several niches, especially on education, technology, and business topics. Joan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Anatomy from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria, and has worked as a researcher and writer for organizations across Nigeria, the US, the UK, and Germany. Joan enjoys meditation, watching movies, and learning new languages in her free time.

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Fact-checked by Amanpreet Kaur

Bachelor of Business Administration, Masters of Business Administration specializing in Accounting and Finance

Amanpreet Kaur picture

Amanpreet KaurBachelor of Business Administration, Masters of Business Administration specializing in Accounting and Finance

Amanpreet has a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the Birla Institute of Technology and Xavier Institute of Social Service respectively, coupled with her internships at Decimal Point Analytics and the Royal Bank of Scotland, has equipped her with the necessary skills to analyze complex data and present insights in an easy-to-understand format. Her paper on the impact of COVID-19 on CSR programs has received high commendation.

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