Consumers International statement on the invasion of Ukraine

Consumers International exercises its influence with integrity, tenacity and passion to ensure a safer world and champion consumer rights everywhere. Principles of fairness, safety and respect for human rights are integral to our work.  

We therefore deeply condemn Russian aggression against Ukraine, the atrocities committed and the spread of disinformation. We express our solidarity with all those affected and fully support humanitarian and diplomatic efforts to help lead to peace.   

PROVIDING HELP TO REFUGEES 

Millions of people (most of whom are women, children and older people) have fled Ukraine since the beginning of the war to seek safe shelter. It is critical that they are provided with comprehensive expertise and assistance on adapting to new life settings. We will work with our Members to urge governments to provide the necessary support and identify where consumer organisations can assist in these efforts. 

FOR A FAIR, SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE MARKETPLACE 

The war has already had and will continue to have wide reaching impact on people’s lives in multiple sectors from energy and food, to health, mobility and finance. It will hinder progress towards the sustainable development goals for everyone.  

Together with our Members we will continue to represent the consumer experience, recommend how best to protect and empower people in the marketplace and call for a safer, fairer and more sustainable marketplace for all. 

HOW OUR MEMBERS ARE HELPING THOSE AFFECTED  

Our Members have been taking action to help the people of Ukraine and consumers affected by the crisis. This includes highlighting its impact for consumers across key areas, advocating for measures to help the relief effort, providing useful information for refugees and on how individuals can help.  

A selection of these efforts includes:  

• VZBV providing information to support both refugees and volunteers and consumer information resources in multiple languages. VZBV have also outlined what consumers can expect as a result of the crisis and what air travellers need to know.  
• Que Choisir demanding banks urgently remove tariffs and fees for money transferred to Ukraine.  
• ASUFIN highlighting how the armed conflict in Ukraine shows that cash cannot disappear.  
• La Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios (OCU) looking into the potential impact on electricity prices.  
• Sveriger Konsumeter producing a fair finance guide showing how Swedish savings are supporting the conflict.  

We will continue to keep this page updated as more Members share their news and activities.