Alternative methods in the resolution of e-consumer disputes: Online dispute resolution methods

Technological developments that greatly simplify human life have affected many areas of life as well as the field of trade. With the mobilization of trade to the electronic environment, there has also been a significant increase in the number of disputes arising from the electronic commerce, which also becomes cross-border. However, current traditional dispute resolution methods have not been able to respond to changing needs in the resolution of disputes arising from electronic commerce. This has especially led consumers, who are in weak situation in contractual relations, to uncertainties about how to resolve disputes in a fair and rapid manner. For this reason, search for alternative dispute resolution methods for the disputes arising from electronic commerce came up as an alternative to traditional state litigation method and even to traditional alternative dispute resolution methods. Online alternative dispute resolution methods have emerged as a result of these needs and searches as an alternative to traditional state litigation and traditional alternative dispute resolution methods. The focus of this study is online alternative dispute resolution methods for the use in the resolution of disputes with foreign elements that arise from electronic commerce and especially the ones that consumers are parties. However, in this context, in addition to online alternative dispute resolution methods, this study will also examine the current traditional dispute resolution methods that can be applied to disputes arise from electronic commerce, especially e-consumer disputes. In this study, while evaluating the practices of European Union, in order to ensure the reliability of electronic commerce in the eyes of consumers and realizing the electronic commerce potential of Turkey effectively, suggestions will be carried out about enhancing online dispute resolution methods in Turkish law, in terms of e-consumer disputes. Key Words: E-Commerce, ADR, ODR, Electronic Negotiation, Electronic Mediation, Electronic Arbitration, Blockchain Arbitration, EU