Multilayer Information Obligation, and Why We Need It

Abstract

Information obligation is a key element of consumer protection, particularly in the context of innovative products. This is especially important when it comes to assistive technologies (AT) for senior citizens and people with disabilities. Being informed about the functioning of the system, potential risks, but also one's rights is crucial for building trust in technologies. Information obligation in its current form is often criticised as ineffective. An introduction of multilayer information obligation (MIO) may be an innovative and promising improvement. This paper aims to present the concept of MIO and identify the benefits of that solution. Firstly, three main problems with information obligation in its current form are acknowledged. Secondly, MIO is presented as a solution to all these problems. The key idea of a proposed mechanism is to introduce three layers of information obligations, each more detailed than the previous one. The content, form, and extension of the obligation of each layer are discussed. Thirdly, the paper examines the main benefits and risks of MIO. Finally, the possible implementation, either through legal requirements or voluntary standards adopted by the industry, is discussed.