In political terms, "public interest" refers to the well-being and welfare of the general population. It encompasses policies and actions that ideally benefit the collective rather than individual interests. The concept of public interest is often used to justify government interventions and regulations aimed at promoting social justice, environmental sustainability, and economic equity. However, defining what constitutes the public interest can be contentious, as different groups may have conflicting views on priorities. Engaging diverse stakeholders in discussions about the public interest is vital to create inclusive policies that reflect societal needs.