What does the term "stakeholder" refer to?

The term "stakeholder" encompasses a broad range of individuals and groups who have an interest or concern in a project or organization. This includes not just those directly involved such as employees, customers, suppliers, and investors, but also groups like community members and regulatory bodies that can impact or be affected by the decisions made by the organization. By adopting the definition encompassing various interested parties, the term reflects the complexity of interactions within businesses and projects that influence both their success and sustainability.

In contrast to other options, which limit the scope of stakeholders, focusing solely on government representatives, financial investors, or public opinion polls does not capture the full range of entities involved in or affected by an organization's operations. Since stakeholders can bring diverse perspectives and needs, recognizing this breadth is essential for effective management and decision-making in sustainability and ESG contexts.