On the annually celebrated World Consumer Rights Day, observed on 15 March, the global focus converges on promoting consumer rights, protection, and empowerment. Facilitated by Consumers International, this day fosters collaboration among 200 consumer advocacy members spanning over 100 countries.
In 2024, the organization has designated ‘Fair and responsible AI for consumers’ as the thematic core, intending to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance consumer well-being while ensuring accountability and responsibility in addressing consumer challenges.
The universal acknowledgement that everyone is a consumer underscores the call for respecting consumer rights to prevent infringements that undermine their self-interest. Elevating consumer rights through the application of advanced AI technology is advocated as the means to inaugurate a new chapter in the realm of consumer rights, wherein actions align with the principles of fairness, responsibility, and accountability.
Given the rapid evolution of technology and the dynamic shifts in political and administrative landscapes, the imperative to safeguard consumer rights in accordance with the contemporary era becomes paramount. Presently, the application of AI must adhere to principles of fairness for both consumers and applicants, necessitating businesses to shoulder responsibility for their products and services. This approach, if implemented effectively, positions AI technology as a positive force for humanity.
The focal point of the international day in 2024 lies in adopting measures to ensure consumer safety, transparency, and heightened awareness. It involves realigning priority plans related to consumer-centric policies, thereby revitalizing the future aspirations of consumers. Myanmar has set plans to observe World Consumer Rights Day 2024 on a grand scale across regions and states, orchestrated by the Department of Consumer Affairs.
In the context of AI shaping products and services, the success of emerging AI technologies, particularly generative AI chatbots, assumes a dominant role in the digital landscape. These chatbots, integral to customer service and support, increasingly incorporate sophisticated AI systems to replicate human conversation. Technology giants are already implementing generative AI in online search experiences, aiming to enhance consumer interactions worldwide while mitigating concerns related to fake news, personal violations, and discrimination.
A critical aspect of the 2024 initiative is addressing bias in consumer affairs to ensure the development and deployment of fair and responsible AI technology. By focusing on generative AI chatbots, the campaign aims to enhance consumer services and support, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations in technology adoption.
The universal acknowledgement that everyone is a consumer underscores the call for respecting consumer rights to prevent infringements that undermine their self-interest. Elevating consumer rights through the application of advanced AI technology is advocated as the means to inaugurate a new chapter in the realm of consumer rights, wherein actions align with the principles of fairness, responsibility, and accountability.
