I think the ICO has acknowledged the issues with the law and as a result is taking a gentle approach to enforcing the law (which the OP's crusade seems at odds with...).
I think it's a good idea to attempt to increase user awareness of how information about a person's visit to a site will be used. As the guidance acknowledges, the type of most interest are third party advertising cookies and if the law helps to increase awareness of such usage, then it will have succeeded.
In terms of geographical location, my understanding is that the location of the provider is irrelevant as if they are providing a service in the EU, they should be complying with the law.
I think it's a good idea to attempt to increase user awareness of how information about a person's visit to a site will be used. As the guidance acknowledges, the type of most interest are third party advertising cookies and if the law helps to increase awareness of such usage, then it will have succeeded.
In terms of geographical location, my understanding is that the location of the provider is irrelevant as if they are providing a service in the EU, they should be complying with the law.