ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides the reader with a critical analysis of the development and current state of European Union (EU) consumer law as well as proposals for its future development. The topics include in the book are the mainstream areas of EU consumer law: the regulation of unfair commercial practices, pre-contractual information and the right of withdrawal; unfair contract terms; sales contracts; consumer credit; product liability and safety; and enforcement and redress. One function of the law should be to share risks so that all consumers can expect their purchases fulfil certain legitimate expectations. An effective consumer law is also compatible with the interests of good traders and should promote the EU brand and raise its international competitiveness.
