Class action lawsuit (as an innovative consumer's protection mechanism)‎: French model

Abstract EN

Consumer protection associations are of great importance in defending the interests of consumers, as they derive their content and strength from the consumer himself.

They are considered the most capable of expressing the consumer's needs and requirements, as they are entrusted with many tasks.

They collect information about products and disseminate it to raise awareness and educate consumers.

They also raise consumer awareness of the importance of quality of goods and services and monitor compliance with specifications.

They are therefore the most suitable to restore the balance between the interests of consumers and professionals, especially when they monitor and exert effective pressure on the executive authority and economic institutions to modify bad behavior.

Recently, the French legislature has supported the existence of these associations by granting them the right to file “class action” lawsuits to claim compensation for damages resulting from the improper actions of economic institutions.

This raises questions about the strength of this new mechanism in adjusting the balance of power.