The figure of the consumer comes in the framework of democratic systems. In countries where there is no free market, consumers' rights are not respected, so its freedom remains impaired.

The final consumer is the person that acquires, uses or enjoys goods and services. Consumer associations arise as a means of information and protection of the rights of every individual as a consumer.

Legal Framework

Consumer associations are organizations mostly non-governmental recognition by the State, regional or provincial level. Article 51 of the Constitution guarantees that the government should contribute to the protection of consumers and users.

The consumer protection in Spain is governed by the General Law for the Protection of Consumers and Users (26/1984). Sus objetivos son: Its objectives are:

·  Laying the foundation for the protection of consumers and users.

·  To ensure a legal framework that encourages the creation and development of consumer associations.

·  To publicize the rights and obligations of consumers for consideration by the authorities.

Consumers' Rights

The consumer information is a fundamental point to protect their rights, since it contributes to greater freedom and rationality in consumption.

The consumer rights legally collected are summarized in the following points:

·  Protection against risks that may affect their health and their safety.

·  Protection of their economic and social interests.

·  Compensation potential damages that may suffer.

·  Information truthful and appropriate information on the goods and services market.

·  Participation, through partnerships, in developing procedures that affect them, such as legal reforms in the sale of products or changing prices.

·  Legal protection, administrative and technical situations of inferiority.

Claim

When a consumer sees flouted their rights has the option of claiming to get remedy the damage that he has caused.. To make such procedures should always keep proof of purchase.

First must come at the same local company or individual from which you purchased the product. If this does not work you can bring complaints to agencies such as:

·  Consumer associations.

·  Consumer Arbitration System: a college Arbitration provides a solution with the same validity as the judgment of a court, but without recourse to the courts.

·  Depending on the seriousness of the matter, it is also possible to initiate judicial review after the filing of the complaint.

Remarks

There are associations of a general nature and specificity. The former are responsible for all kinds of services, while the latter focuses on the consumer attention on specific areas.