[Video message]
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
On this World Consumer Rights Day, we reaffirm a simple principle: Every consumer has the right to safe products.
Yet unsafe products persist, especially in developing countries. They undermine trust and put health at risk. Product safety is not optional; it is essential.
It is alarming that, according to UNCTAD data, 44% of United Nations Member States still lack legislation in consumer protection.
UNCTAD, as the focal point on consumer protection within the UN, supports developing countries in strengthening legal and institutional frameworks.
A significant milestone was reached in December last year: the UN General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution establishing the first-ever United Nations Principles for Consumer Product Safety.
They underline that product safety is a shared global responsibility.
UNCTAD is supporting the implementation of these principles. For this, alliances are crucial and we are glad to be able to count on our longstanding partnership with Consumers International.
Together, we can build markets that are safe, trusted, and sustainable for all.
Thank you.