1.

Providing input and feedback:

Public participants have a valuable role in providing input
and feedback on policy proposals or issues. This input
helps policymakers understand the diverse perspectives
and interests of the public and make informed decisions.
For example:
- Public consultations: Government agencies often seek
public input through town hall meetings, surveys, or
online platforms. For instance, when developing
environmental regulations, the Environmental Protection
Agency may hold public hearings to gather input from
stakeholders and affected communities. - Expert
testimony: Public participants who are experts in a
specific field can provide their insights and expertise
through written submissions or by presenting testimony
to policymakers. These testimonials can greatly influence
policy decisions by providing evidence-based
recommendations.

2. Advocacy and mobilization:

Public participants often act as advocates for specific
policy issues, mobilizing support and raising awareness
within their communities. They strive to influence
policymakers' decisions by generating public discourse and
community engagement.
Examples include:
- Grassroots organizations: Public participants
may form grassroots organizations to champion a
particular cause. For instance, Moms Demand Action for
Gun Sense in America is a grassroots movement
advocating for gun control policies, mobilizing mothers
and community members around the country.
- Campaigns and protests: Public participants
may organize demonstrations, rallies, or social media
campaigns to draw attention to a specific policy issue. An
example is the worldwide youth-led "Fridays for Future"
movement, initiated by Greta Thunberg, which mobilizes
millions of young people to demand action on climate
change.

3. Monitoring and accountability:

The public plays a crucial role in monitoring policy
implementation and holding policymakers accountable for
their decisions and actions. They assess policy outcomes,
identify gaps, and advocate for necessary changes.
Examples of this role include:
- Civil society watchdogs: Public interest
groups, think tanks, and NGOs play an essential role in
monitoring policies and holding governments
accountable. For instance, Transparency International
monitors corruption levels globally and advocates for
transparency and anti-corruption measures.
- Social media and citizen journalism: In the
digital age, individuals can use social media platforms
and citizen journalism to report and highlight policy
failures or implementation challenges. This can lead to
public pressure that holds policymakers accountable for
their actions.

These roles showcase the active participation of the public

in policy making, helping shape policies, raising
awareness, mobilizing support, and holding decision-
makers responsible for the outcomes.