UNCTAD's Technical Cooperation Programme on Consumer Protection for Latin America: COMPAL

Area of Science:

• International Trade Law
• Consumer Protection Policy
• Sustainable Development

Background:

• The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has a mandate encompassing consensus building, research, analysis, and technical assistance.
• Since the 1980s, UNCTAD has focused on assisting developing countries and economies in transition with consumer protection legislation and policies.
• This assistance aims to align consumer protection with trade and industrial policies, contributing to Sustainable Development Goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of UNCTAD's technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives in consumer protection.
• To highlight the success of the UNCTAD COMPAL Programme in Latin America.
• To advocate for continued and expanded collaboration between the European Union (EU) and UNCTAD.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of UNCTAD's technical assistance and capacity-building activities.
• Assessment of the COMPAL Programme's influence on consumer protection regimes and institutions in Latin America.
• Review of policy complementarity between consumer protection, trade, and industrial policies.

Main Results:

• UNCTAD's COMPAL Programme has demonstrated a significant and positive impact on improving consumer protection frameworks in Latin America.
• The program has enhanced institutional capacities for consumer protection in the region.
• There is a clear benefit to both Latin American and European consumers through strengthened consumer protection.

Conclusions:

• UNCTAD's technical assistance is crucial for developing effective consumer protection legislation and policies.
• The COMPAL Programme serves as a successful model for enhancing consumer protection and achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
• Continued partnership between the EU and UNCTAD is recommended to expand the COMPAL Programme's reach and benefits.