The Consumer Voice at Davos 2025: Where are Consumer Rights in the Intelligent Age?

By Helena Leurent, Director General of Consumers International

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection—a powerful reminder of the progress we’ve made and the critical challenges ahead. In a rapidly evolving world shaped by economic uncertainty, technological advancements, and the urgent need for sustainable transitions, the role of consumer organisations has never been more crucial. Consumers International is committed to making sure consumers have a real voice in shaping economic policies, business practices, and global governance.

That’s why we’re participating in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos – to advocate for fair, sustainable, and inclusive solutions that prioritise consumers worldwide.

Representing Consumers in the Intelligent Age

The theme of this year’s annual meeting, “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,” underscores the complexities and opportunities shaping our world. Consumers are navigating a turbulent marketplace—soaring costs of living, climate shocks, digital disruptions, and the aftermath of the pandemic —leaving them vulnerable and overwhelmed.

We will be speaking on several panels at Davos, covering issues such as digital finance, sustainable consumption, responsible AI, digital rights, energy transitions and more. Our recent blog on digital finance is already live on the World Economic Forum platform, where we emphasise the need for safer and more inclusive financial systems. Read it here.

Throughout the week, we will ensure that consumer perspectives—and the insights of our Members who represent them—remain central to these vital discussions. People need to be aware and involved in decisions that shape their future —representation matters.

Our Key Messages at Davos:

Collaboration drives solutions: From AI to energy systems, real progress requires governments, businesses, and civil society to work together.
Consumers shape the future: Their decisions drive markets. Their needs must drive policies.
Systemic change is essential: Incremental fixes won’t cut it. We need bold action to tackle challenges like digital safety, climate resilience, and fair finance.

Davos is not just about sharing; it’s about listening and learning. We are honoured to be among just 40 civil society organisations invited to participate. From businesses innovating with sustainability to policymakers tackling inequality, there’s a wealth of knowledge here. And we’re asking: What consumer issues matter most to you?

Real Consumer Issues, Real Impact

From around the world, here are just a selection of the consumer rights issues our Members are tackling in the intelligent age:

Digital finance

CONSENT Uganda played a pivotal role in revising national consumer protection guidelines to include stronger measures against predatory lending practices.
In Mexico, Tec-Check is collaborating with the fintech industry to promote transparency and security in digital finance.

The Consumer Council of Fiji is developing a consumer complaints system for digital finance hotspots, influencing both policy and business practices.

Energy transition

The Consumers Organisation of Macedonia empowers consumers to adopt renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies through initiatives like CLEAR-X, driving awareness, collective purchasing, and policy advocacy.

In Germany, Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband is advocating for EU rules allowing energy consumers to return to their original contracts in cases of fraudulent switching or provider misconduct.

Programmes like Canada’s Greener Homes Programme and India’s FAME scheme demonstrate the potential for inclusive clean energy and mobility initiatives, yet many vulnerable consumers remain locked out.

Digital safety

In New Zealand, scams cost households $200 million in 2024. Our Member, Consumer NZ is leading the fight for stronger protections.

Across Southeast Asia, illegal loan apps exploit low-income communities. The Thailand Consumer Council has highlighted these issues, exposing gaps in policy enforcement that leave vulnerable consumers at risk.

The Hong Kong Consumer Council is focused on protecting older consumers and people with disabilities from scams, ensuring technology is inclusive and secure.

Sustainability and resilience

Idec is raising awareness in Brazil about agricultural practices that respect natural cycles, protect the environment, and provide healthier, pesticide-free food options.

To amplify the voices of affected communities, Consumer Reports is investigating the impact of extreme weather events on home insurance costs.

Closing Thoughts

The intelligent age is defined by collaboration. From AI to energy systems, real progress depends on governments, businesses, and civil society working together. Consumers are not just participants—they shape the future, driving markets with their decisions and demanding policies that meet their needs. At Davos, we are proud to represent the billions of consumers who deserve a seat at the table—because when consumers thrive, we all do.