Presentation

The Centre was founded more than 20 years ago by Mr. Th. Bourgoignie. Under the leadership of Mr. Bourgoignie, the Centre acquired leadership in academic research around consumer law issues.

The Centre edited three academic Journals, one in English and two in French. It hosted dozens of conferences where people from all over the world participated. The Centre also organized summer courses for students, civil servants, industry lawyers, advocates and magistrates.

Meanwhile, the responsibility for management and scientific direction has been transmitted to other academics of the Université catholique de Louvain. Mr. M. Fontaine served as Director during an interim period, from May 2000 to August 2001.

In September 2001, Mr. P. Nihoul was appointed as the New Director. Since the arrival of Mr. Nihoul, the Centre has attempted to focus its activities on the changes that have recently intervened in the way consumers’ interests are supposed to be served. More attention is devoted to competition, liberalization and new forms of regulation – their advantages and limits.