Public consultation is a process where government decisionmakers seek input, opinions, or feedback from the public before making a decision, but retain full authority over the final outcome. It typically involves one-way communication, where the public provides comments but does not shape the process or frame the questions. The purpose is to inform decisions, not to share decision-making power. In short: consultation = asking for opinions before deciding. | Public consultation is a process where government decisionmakers seek input, opinions, or feedback from the public before making a decision, but retain full authority over the final outcome. It typically involves one-way communication, where the public provides comments but does not shape the process or frame the questions. The purpose is to inform decisions, not to share decision-making power. In short: consultation = asking for opinions before deciding. |