Alternative dispute resolution mechanism in the area of financial services in European Union

The development of a single European market in retail financial services has resulted in a growing awareness within the European Union of the importance of efficient alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for consumers. The purpose of this document is to analyze existing Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms in the area of financial service in European Union, including European and Polish regulations. Author described characteristic of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), initiatives taken by European Union aiming to ensure the right level of consumer protection and both existing and proposed regulations. The article addresses the issue of ADR bodies in the Member States and Financial Services Complaints Network (FIN-NET). Research carried out in the article made it possible to present proposals in conclusions.