Lead story

CEN-CENELEC dialogue on standardisation

ANEC took part in the CEN-CENELEC event, “Setting the Standard: A Strategic Dialogue for an Inclusive Standardisation System” on 17 November 2025, where Deputy Director General, Chiara Giovannini, joined a panel of societal and SME representatives. The audience was comprised of CEN-CENELEC members and representatives of the EU institutions.

Chiara stressed the growing importance of European standardisation for consumers, noting its role in product safety, the digital and green transitions, and supporting informed consumer choices. She highlighted the need for standards to reflect real consumer behaviour and not idealised assumptions.

ANEC took part in the CEN-CENELEC event, “Setting the Standard: A Strategic Dialogue for an Inclusive Standardisation System” on 17 November 2025, where Deputy Director General, Chiara Giovannini, joined a panel of societal and SME representatives. The audience was comprised of CEN-CENELEC members and representatives of the EU institutions.

Chiara stressed the growing importance of European standardisation for consumers, noting its role in product safety, the digital and green transitions, and supporting informed consumer choices. She highlighted the need for standards to reflect real consumer behaviour and not idealised assumptions.

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ANEC at European Consumer Day

ANEC Director-General, Stephen Russell, participated in the European Economic and Social Committee’s event to mark European Consumer Day 2025 on 1 December. This year’s meeting centred on the timely and pressing theme: “Europe for sale? How global marketplaces are changing our society, and what must be done right now”.

Speaking in Panel 2, Stephen contributed to a discussion on how rapid changes in global marketplaces are affecting EU consumers and society. The panel was chaired by ANEC Vice-President and EESC Group III member, Jens Henriksson.

Speakers throughout the afternoon all referred to the influx into Europe of non-compliant and dangerous products through e-commerce platforms, products often manufactured in areas with poor labour conditions and little consideration of the environment. The costs to responsible businesses and loss of market share were also stressed.

In his remarks, Stephen highlighted the seriousness of the situation facing Europe.

As he noted, “Let’s be clear: Europe is not dealing with a handful of faulty goods. It is confronting a systemic failure, one that strikes directly at the safety of its people, the fairness of its markets, and the integrity of its values”.

He concluded by remarking, “The message to global marketplaces must be firm and unmistakable: Access to half-a-billion European consumers is a privilege, not a right. And with that privilege comes responsibility”.

Learn more about the European Consumer Day 2025 panel.

Shocking test results of products sold online

Recent studies have underlined the concerns expressed by Stephen Russell at the EESC meeting on 1 December; and by ANEC Senior Manager, Tania Vandenberghe, at a Toy Industries Europe breakfast on 19 November.

In one study, 69% of the tested products were found illegal and unsafe for sale in the EU.

The study was conducted by four consumer organisations - Stiftung Warentest (Germany), UFC-Que Choisir (France), Test-Achats/Test-Aankoop (Belgium), and Forbrugerrådet Tænk (Denmark) - who looked into the safety and legality of consumer products sold online by the Temu and Shein e-platforms. The project was led by ICRT (International Consumer Research & Testing).

In total, 162 products (81 from each site) were bought from the following product categories and subcategories: Child Products - Toys for children under 3 years; Jewellery - Necklaces; and Electronics - USB chargers. The testing followed harmonised test programmes aligned with EU product safety legislation, and was conducted by accredited laboratories across Europe.

In another study conducted in the United Kingdom, the consumer organisation Which? found hundreds of unsafe products still widely available months after official product safety alerts had been announced - 98% of these corresponded to items classified as posing a “serious” or “high” risk. Yet 75% of UK consumers still believe products sold through e-platforms must be safe in order to be on sale.

A third study by Toy Industries Europe (TIE) showed equally worrying results, with 96% of toys showing non-compliance with EU rules and 86% with serious safety issues.

ANEC welcomes that the present EU rules on market surveillance and enforcement are to be revised in parallel with the Standardisation Regulation and New Legislative Framework. The role of online marketplaces in the supply chain must be acknowledged and, above all, their status and obligations must be made those of importers to ensure they can be held liable for product safety violations.

Changes in the ANEC governance

 We are pleased to announce that the ANEC Steering Committee - the board of the association - has elected Jens Henriksson (Sweden) as ANEC Vice-President for the remainder of its current term. His appointment will be proposed for ratification to the ANEC General Assembly at its next face-to-face meeting in June 2026.

Jens succeeds Rusnė Juozapaitienė, who stepped down in October as ANEC member for Lithuania and Steering Committee member. We thank Rusnė for her commitment and contributions during her mandate.

Replacing Rusnė on the Steering Committee is Werner Daum (Germany). Werner’s co-option will also be proposed for ratification to the next meeting of the General Assembly.

Child Safety 

A major step forward for safer play in Europe!

On 25 November, with the adoption of the Toy Safety Regulation, the European Parliament reached a landmark agreement to update toy safety legislation in the EU, a major step forward welcomed by ANEC and our colleagues in BEUC.

These changes come at a crucial time. Toys remain one of the most frequently-flagged product categories in the EU Safety Gate system, and too many unsafe items still reach the hands of children (see the statistics from TIE earlier in this newsletter). The new Regulation is ambitious and forward-looking, closing gaps that have long-needed addressing. As always, effective enforcement will be essential.

The adopted legislation is a win for families, a win for consumers, and above all, a win for children across Europe. Safe play is not a luxury - it is a right. Europe has moved closer to making that right a reality for every child.

Key improvements include:

• A comprehensive ban on the most hazardous chemicals, including endocrine disruptors, PFAS, bisphenols and other substances proven to harm children’s health.
• A Digital Product Passport, boosting traceability and empowering authorities with better tools for market surveillance.
• Mandatory assessments of digital and connected toy risks, including impacts on children’s mental health and data security.
• Tighter rules on sound levels and physical hazards, helping protect children’s hearing and supporting safe play environments.
• Enhanced inclusiveness, with explicit consideration for accessibility and adaptive toys for children with disabilities.

ANEC Child Safety WG meets

The ANEC Child Safety WG convened online for its autumn meeting on 19 and 27 November 2025, bringing together experts from across Europe to discuss ongoing and emerging consumer safety issues affecting children. We were delighted to welcome a new expert from North Macedonia, strengthening the group’s geographic representation and expertise.

Across both sessions, members discussed a broad range of child safety topics. Key points included updates on toy safety - such as the new Toy Safety Regulation - the ongoing ANEC Technical Study on Bite Force; the draft amendment to Standardisation Request M/589; draft guidance documents on food-imitating toys and toy drones, and discussions on weighted soft-filled toys. The WG also re-considered supervision in trampoline parks and agreed on the ANEC reply to the Systematic Review of EN 1176-7 on the inspection of playgrounds.

A highlight of the second meeting was the participation of ICRT (International Consumer Research & Testing) who presented findings from their recent online shopping investigations of consumer products, including toys (see the earlier story in this newsletter).

Our experts further considered the latest trends from the recent Kind & Jugend Fair and engaged in an in-depth discussion on “safe sleeping”, covering bedside sleepers; hammocks and suspended cribs, and weighted blankets. The WG is awaiting the draft Standardisation Request (SReq) ‘Children’s products’. The development or revision of many standards that ANEC will follow will depends on this new SReq.

Toy safety tips campaign 2025

During November and December, ahead of the many annual festive celebrations, ANEC and TIE (Toy Industries of Europe) worked together again on our yearly campaign featuring videos with advice on choosing safe toys.

The Toy Safety Tips are available in seven languages (English, French, German, Dutch, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese) and can be downloaded at https://toysafetytips.eu.

Accessibility

ANEC speaks at Accessible Europe

ANEC was delighted to speak at the Regional Forum for Europe “Accessible Europe 2025: ICT4All”, held on 2 & 3 December in Brussels. Coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, ANEC Deputy Director-General, Chiara Giovannini, presented ANEC’s work on AI and accessibility standardisation.

In her intervention, Chiara stressed the need for strong governance safeguards to ensure that the growing use of AI in mainstream services - such as customer support, transport and public administration - does not lead to new forms of exclusion or discrimination for persons with disabilities.

She also underlined the importance of embedding accessibility requirements in the AI standards being developed by ISO/IEC and CEN-CENELEC, noting that accessibility must be treated as an essential quality criterion rather than an optional feature.

The event, organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and European Commission - with the support of Fundación ONCE and the European Federation of Hard of Hearing People - brought together key actors committed to building an inclusive digital society.

Explore the event page.

Digital Society

CEN/TR 18260 approved

We are pleased to report that CEN/TR 18260 “Sustainable Cities and Communities - A framework for standardisation of services to the citizen” has been approved.

ANEC led the drafting of this deliverable, based on our proposal to create a framework for a future standardisation project. The aim is to establish and document best practice in the design and execution of smart and sustainable services offered by local authorities to citizens, including both residents and visitors.

Once the Technical Report is published, the next step will be the development of a full standard, which will require appropriate financial support. ANEC will continue to follow and contribute to this important work.

AI Risks for Vulnerable Consumers

ANEC hosted the public webinar, “Consumer Vulnerabilities and AI Act Standards”, on 4 December. The session was led by Malcolm Fisk, Professor of Ageing and the Life course at the University of Central Lancashire, who outlined how AI is reshaping consumer choices, rights and freedoms.

The discussion focused on the risks AI poses for vulnerable consumers, exploring how digital systems could either intensify existing vulnerabilities or help reduce them. Participants considered whether businesses might exploit these weaknesses and how regulation, oversight and careful design could mitigate potential harms.

The webinar also reviewed the obligations set out in the EU AI Act, including requirements for transparency, fairness and protection of vulnerable groups. Attendees heard how upcoming European standards for AI were expected to influence consumer safety and strengthen safeguards. The event highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of AI, stressing the need for robust protections for all consumers.

Digital Omnibus Proposal

On 19 November, the European Commission released the Digital Omnibus proposal introducing technical revisions to the AI Act. The proposal aims to simplify implementation and offer more flexibility.

A major change is the linking of high-risk AI obligations to the availability of standards and support tools. These requirements would apply only when the Commission confirms that adequate measures exist. Although this gives the standardisers more time, ANEC is concerned that it creates a real risk of intentional delays, as slowing down the standardisation process could postpone the application of the law. We view this as a troubling precedent that could weaken future legislation.

The proposal also includes adjustments, such as more flexible post-market monitoring. It will now be negotiated by the European Parliament and the Council, with adoption expected in the first half of 2026. ANEC will continue to follow the process closely.

ANEC strives to increase inclusiveness

ANEC participated in the CEN-CENELEC/JTC 21 plenary meeting, held in Copenhagen from 18–21 November, where stakeholders gathered to assess progress on European AI standardisation. In addition to contributing to the development of the AI standards, ANEC is also working to increase the inclusiveness of the standardisation process.

As co-chair of Working Group 1 Task Group “Inclusiveness”, ANEC presented a set of proposals to further advance inclusiveness in JTC 21. These proposals aimed at encouraging broader representation; strengthen the presence of public-interest voices, and reinforce the integration of civil society at national level. The proposals were well-received by attendees, including from CEN-CENELEC and the European Commission.

ANEC Digital Society WG meeting

The ANEC Digital Society Working Group met on 13-14 November 2025 in Brussels to review progress made in digital policy and related standardisation. The WG also discussed ongoing work in privacy, cybersecurity, accessibility, smart cities, AV equipment safety and EMF exposure, with updates from CEN-CENELEC, ETSI and the European Commission on cybersecurity standardisation.

Artificial Intelligence was another central theme, with an outline of developments in the AI Act and key workstreams of CEN-CENELEC JTC 21. The group also reviewed progress in e-Recognition, biometrics and digital identity wallets, and held an interactive session on strengthening the impact of consumers contributions at national level.

Domestic Appliances

European Fire Safety Week 2025

ANEC was delighted to take part in European Fire Safety Week 2025, held from 3 to 7 November in Brussels and online. On 3 November, Michela Vuerich, ANEC Lead Programme Manager for Sustainability & Services, spoke in the webinar, “Fire Safety in a Changing World”.

During the webinar, Michela drew attention to the heightened fire risks faced by vulnerable groups and explained how awareness, inclusive design, and targeted support can reduce harm. Furthermore, she called for a European fire safety strategy that includes Europe-wide accident data; education that protects vulnerable citizens; action on emerging risks from electrification, and research for safer, energy-efficient homes.

On the final day of the Fire Safety Week, which concluded with EU Smoke Alarm Day 2025, ANEC made another contribution through the webinar “Hear the Alarm – Save a Life” on 7 November. Tania Vandenberghe, Senior Manager for Child Safety & Domestic Appliances, focused on household fires and the life-saving value of smoke detectors, emphasizing the need for strong European standards, safe products, and effective market surveillance to protect people in their homes.

Tania underlined how compliant appliances can prevent fires, whereas unsafe products may lead to severe injuries and fatalities. She also reaffirmed ANEC’s call for a pan-European accident and injury database and reminded participants that smoke alarms complying with EN 14604 save lives.

Watch the recordings and see the presentations from European Fire Safety Week 2025.

Sustainability

Circular Economy Act

ANEC has published its Position Paper responding to the European Commission’s Call for Evidence on the upcoming Circular Economy Act. The EU’s ambition to accelerate the transition to a circular economy presents a critical opportunity to reshape how products are designed, used and managed so benefiting both the environment and consumers.

In our paper, we call for a systemic, consumer-centred approach that goes far beyond recycling. To be effective, the Circular Economy Act must prioritise waste prevention, sustainable product design and strong chemical safety measures. For the Act to deliver real change, it must influence every stage of a product’s lifecycle - from design and production to use, reuse and disposal. Consumers need stronger protection and clearer information, while producers must be held accountable for delivering safer, more sustainable products.

Our key recommendations include:

• Strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes to encourage sustainable design, promote reuse and repair, and harmonise fee structures across the EU.
• Improving consumer engagement through transparent eco-fees, awareness campaigns and accessible take-back systems.
• Make high-quality treatment standards for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) mandatory, including the legal adoption of EN 50625.
• Addressing hazardous chemicals in recycled materials by ensuring full REACH compliance and broad restrictions on substances of very high concern.
• Removing barriers to secondary raw material markets and tackling illegal waste flows.
• Expanding the scope of WEEE to include renewable energy equipment and emerging technologies.

Chemicals

ANEC Chemicals Expert Group meets

The ANEC Chemicals Project Team met online on 21 November to discuss to review the ANEC position paper, “Hazardous chemicals in products - The need for enhanced EU regulations”. Following an update of the political landscape on chemical safety of consumer products, experts took stock of the progress made with the paper and identified priority areas that could benefit from revision or additional text.

Services

ANEC backs Keep Me Posted EU

On 12 November, ANEC Director-General, Stephen Russell, and ANEC Lead Programme Manager, Michela Vuerich, joined PostEurop and Members of the European Parliament to reflect on the insights from the “Why Choice Matters” report released in February. Through its work with the Keep Me Posted EU campaign, ANEC continues to champion the preservation of the Universal Service Obligation; defend consumers’ ability to choose between paper and digital formats without penalty; promote accessible online services, and safeguard the vital social role postal services play.

A press release was issued following the discussion.

Learn more about the event.

(© Keep Me Posted EU)

ANEC position Paper on EU Delivery Act

ANEC has published a new position paper on the upcoming Delivery Act, outlining what consumers need from a modern, fair and reliable delivery market. As the EU reviews its postal rules in light of declining letter volumes, booming e-commerce and the push for sustainable, inclusive services, ANEC stresses that consumers must remain at the centre of reform. The revision is an important chance to secure reliable, equitable postal services for all consumers.

ANEC supports Policy Option 2, which strikes the best balance between modernisation and social responsibility.

Key priorities include:

• A strong, affordable Universal Service Obligation, with at least three delivery days per week.
• Greater consumer rights and transparency, including clear pricing, track-and-trace and accessible complaints.
• Standardised quality levels across all postal and e-commerce delivery services.
• Shared financing of the USO by all delivery operators to ensure long-term sustainability.

Traffic & Mobility

Look before you lock!

Even on mild days, the interior of a parked car can heat up dangerously fast. Children left inside, even for a short time, can suffer heatstroke.

Our new leaflet raises awareness on this issue and gives recommendations for parents and caregivers on how to reduce this risk.

The leaflet also includes recommendations for policymakers and standardisers on the need for action with technological solutions and a global regulation.

ANEC has long called for more attention to this topic. We are currently working at UN level to help develop the first international vehicle regulation to prevent children being left in vehicles.

ANEC presented the latest updates on this work at the annual Langwieder Conference on Protection of Children in Cars on 9-10 December 2025. 

News from ANEC member countries

Belgium - Billy Ray Muraille talks standards

This article is a summary of an interview conducted by NBN, in which Billy Ray Muraille of AB-REOC/BV-OECO shared his perspective on why consumer representation is essential in standardisation.

Billy Ray is the Belgian member of the ANEC General Assembly, an expert in several ANEC WGs, and ANEC representative in CEN and ISO technical bodies. In his interview, he stresses that standards are ultimately about people and the way they use products in daily life.

Strengthening consumer representation

AB-REOC/BV-OECO supports a wide network of Belgian consumer organisations and represents them in key advisory bodies. Billy Ray also contributes to the Belgian Supreme Council for Standardization’s work on inclusiveness, helping ensure that NGOs, SMEs and social organisations can participate more easily.

Through ANEC, he brings practical consumer perspectives into CEN and ISO committees. This involvement has contributed to improvements such as enhanced safety testing for baby slings, and sound level requirements for cribs with built in speakers.

Building more inclusive standards

Belgium’s recent decision to reimburse participation costs for consumer, trade union and environmental groups in standardisation work lowers barriers and recognises the value of their expertise. Billy Ray notes that combining technical knowledge with real-life user insight leads to stronger and more balanced standards.

Encouraging wider engagement

In the interview, Billy Ray encourages young experts and interested citizens to become involved in standardisation. Technical knowledge helps but is not essential. What matters most is the willingness to promote safety, clarity and inclusion.

As Billy Ray concluded, standards affect everyone. By taking part in shaping them, we contribute to a safer and more inclusive society.

Republic of North Macedonia - New national committee on child safety

Following discussions of the Consumers Organisation with the Institute for Standardisation in North Macedonia, a proposal was accepted to establish a new national Technical Committee dedicated to child safety. No such committee has existed within the Institute’s structure until now.

The creation of this committee will strengthen national engagement in European child safety standardization, enhance consumer protection, and support harmonization with EU and international standards.

The new committee will be responsible for standardisation activities in the following areas:

• Safety of Toys: Covering mechanical and physical properties, flammability, chemical properties, and the use of graphical symbols.
• Child Care Articles: Developing horizontal requirements for all products designed or evidently intended to safely provide and facilitate seating, bathing, dressing, feeding, sleeping, transport, and protection of children.
• Sports, Playground, and Recreational Facilities and Equipment: Standardization of specific items and systems for sports and recreation, focusing on terminology, safety and operational requirements, performance, test methods, marking, consumer/user information, installation, and maintenance.

ANEC wishes you happy holidays!