Z. (Zhen) Chen

My research focuses on consumer protection in the field of private international law, particularly concerning the protection of tourist consumers in the era of the Internet's ubiquity and the rapid growth of E-commerce in our Digital Society. With the widespread availability of computers, smartphones, and other digital devices, it has become increasingly convenient to book flights and accommodations online and travel abroad. However, when disputes arise, the question arises: can individuals easily bring foreign tour operators or travel service providers before the courts in their home country and be protected under the laws of their home country?

My doctoral thesis revolves around two primary questions within private international law: which court has jurisdiction and which law applies to consumer disputes with a foreign element. I will conduct a comparative research study between Chinese Law and European law concerning the protection of tourist consumers. Through this comparison, my thesis aims to examine the similarities and differences between these two legal systems. Ultimately, my goal is to explore how current private international law rules in China and the European Union can be refined to better serve the interests of tourist consumers in the context of cross-border travel and facilitate their access to justice.

Disciplines Involved:Private International Law, E-commerce Law, Tourism Law, Consumer Law, Contract Law, Civil Law, Chinese Law, European Law, International Civil Procedural Law