TT: But instead of being passive and saying there are difficulties, the foundation should initiate action. What plans do you have?
Cheng: As conglomerates and partisan interests often dominate political maneuvering, it's really a big challenge to push for amendments to the law because ethical persuasion does not work. We do not rule out applying electoral pressure on legislators. That is, we might make public the ranking of the lawmakers who respect consumers' rights the least.
TT: Is it possible that consumer movements might transform into consumer politics? Because what you have said would involve a certain degree of "exchange."
Cheng: To announce rankings would be the most effective way, which does involve a bit of politics. But because the foundation has no governing power, it is really hard to demand of companies that they should make improvements or offer compensation. Why should they bow to us? The only legacy we have is public credibility.
TT: What do you think of Taiwan's consumer movements?
Cheng: Compared with other countries, there is still much room for improvement. But certainly, Taiwan's consumer activities have made some progress over the past 24 years.
One reason that hinders better progress is that most people are still passive. Victims are usually unwilling to spend time asking for compensation. They even blame themselves for, say, slipping on wet floors.
Therefore, public education always tops the agenda for the foundation. We encourage consumers to stand up and expose the businesses that disregard consumers' rights.
TT: What future direction will the foundation move in?
Cheng: Taiwan's consumer movements are moderate. They are not like political events, where hundreds of thousands of people can be easily mobilized to hold demonstrations. The foundation is now considering whether we should call on consumers to take to the street to consolidate consumer awareness.
In the Nike incident last month, we planned for the first time to have volunteers stand outside Nike outlets with signs calling for a boycott of products. The action was later canceled because the company had apologized.
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