The Committee on Consumer Policy of ISO will begin its annual Plenary session on 23rd May 2023 till 26th May 2023. This year, India is hosting the mega event, following its first host back in 2009. The Bureau of Indian Standards feels privileged to welcome the ISO COPOLCO in the country. The Plenary will witness various discussions and deliberations, informal meetings and networking, workshops, informative presentations emphasising consumer engagement in Standards and other key relevant topics. The prestigious four-day event will witness the esteemed presence of delegates, stakeholders, representatives of various Standards Organisation and other key dignitaries from across the world.
COPOLCO, a Committee on Consumer Policy of the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO), provides a forum for the exchange of information and experience on consumer participation in the ISO. The Committee is dedicated to promote consumer participation in standards.
COPOLCO identifies key standardization areas of interest of consumers and works to promote and coordinate consumer representation in those areas. It also influences ISO’s program of work by proposing new areas for standardization where there is a perceived need for enhanced consumer protection.
While COPOLCO itself does not write standards— that are carried out by ISO. However, it does produce standards development guides, policy statements, and informational publications on issues of importance to consumers.
The COPOLCO Plenary 2023 will act as a platform to brainstorm ideas, discuss challenges and plan a way forward on the Standards and relevant topics. Thus, the event would lay a foundation for a fairer and more consumer-centric future. The outcomes and impact of this four-day event will contribute to the development of Standards that protect and empower consumers worldwide, aiming to ensure safe market practices for all.
Hosting this mega event is an important opportunity for India to enhance its position globally in the realm of Standardisation. The Plenary would help the country in showcasing its commitment towards consumer safety and therefore enhancing their trust and confidence in Standardisation. Moreover, this mega event would assist the country in strengthening its position as a leading member and promoting international cooperation/relations. As this event offers a platform for the country to collaborate with international delegates. It demonstrates India as a reliable partner in shaping Standards. The event would also create an environment for sharing knowledge and expertise around the Standardisation. Furthermore, the exposure gained in this event would also attract foreign organisations/companies to invest in Indian markets. The country would also see a boost in the tourism sector.
This distinguished /high-profile event would certainly further the vision of Honourable PM Narendra Modi to make India a leading power globally.
India has since long been actively involved in matters of International Standardisation and was one of the founding members of the ISO. Currently, India is a Participating member of 500 committees and an Observer member in 181 committees. India participates in the ISO technical committees through corresponding National Mirror Committees of the Bureau of Indian Standards.
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