Online Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms for Privacy and Consumer Protection Disputes

Citation
OECD, The Hague Conference on International Law and the International Chamber of Commerce, Online Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms for Privacy and Consumer Protection Disputes (The Hague) (Dec. 2000).

Overview
The aim of the conference was to explore if and how online ADR mechanisms can help resolve business to consumer (B2C) disputes arising from privacy and consumer protection issues and thus improve trust for global electronic commerce. The primary focus of the conference was on low levels of harm, as well as on informal, flexible systems that allow for the necessary balancing between the type of dispute and the formality of the process for resolution (e.g. assisted negotiation and mediation).

A consensus emerged on some principles, such as: settling disputes at an early stage is most effective; flexibility and variety in ADR mechanisms is valuable; appropriate technological developments may facilitate ADR; individual users need information about processes in order to participate effectively; procedural safeguards are important in some disputes.