Who is classified as a "stakeholder"?

A stakeholder is someone who shares an interest in an enterprise. This definition encompasses a broad range of individuals or groups who are affected by or can affect the operations and success of a business or project. Stakeholders can include employees, customers, investors, suppliers, and even the community at large. Their interests and stakes in the enterprise can vary widely; for example, employees are concerned with job security and wages, while investors are focused on profitability and returns.

In this context, the other choices do not accurately capture the essence of a stakeholder. Someone who has no investment in a business lacks the connection to influence or be influenced by the enterprise's performance. A governmental representative may be involved in regulatory or oversight functions, but does not inherently possess a stake in the business's success or failure. Similarly, a legal advisor plays a role in guiding decisions and ensuring compliance, but is not directly invested in the business itself. Thus, recognizing that a stakeholder is specifically someone with an interest in the enterprise clarifies why the selection of one who shares an interest is the correct interpretation.