Public engagement

Public engagement refers to the process of involving the general public in decision-making and governance. Originating in the UK in the late 1990s, public engagement emerged as a reaction to power imbalances in decision-making processes, often dominated by influential groups. It is closely linked to the concept of participatory democracy, where ordinary citizens are empowered to partake in decisions that affect them. Public engagement can occur at various levels involving different information flows, from one-way communication to interactive involvement. Social media^[1] and community forums often serve as platforms for this process. The goal is to enhance transparency, trust, and accountability in governance, while promoting diverse perspectives and public understanding of complex issues. Challenges include finding a universally applicable engagement modality and promoting public deliberation. Despite these challenges, public engagement is vital for improving governance, fostering public trust, and enabling informed decision-making.