Consumer Alternative Dispute Resolution in Emerging Economies, Taylor & Francis Ltd, ss.249-256, 2025
Consumers with low-value claims are often the weaker party and require institutional protection. Initially, while consumer rights were recognised, little attention was given to enforcing these rights. This is especially true in emerging economies, where legal systems are ill-equipped to protect consumer rights. ADR systems are emerging as a potentially effective way to provide consumers with access to justice globally. The rise in digital transactions has increased consumer disputes, necessitating the development of substantive consumer rights, especially online transactions. However, these rights are only meaningful if they can be practically enforced. Traditional litigation is expensive, time-consuming, and complex, making ADR systems a more viable option in our digital society. Over the past few decades, ADR systems have gained popularity for resolving consumer complaints. Mechanisms such as arbitration, mediation, and ombudsman services offer efficient, faster, less formal, and often more cost-effective dispute resolution compared to traditional legal procedures.