The Public Engagement Onion is a visual framework originally developed by the Wellcome Trust that maps the different levels and forms of public engagement — from broad, one-directional communication to deep, two-way collaboration. Like the layers of an onion, the model moves from the outside in: the outer layers represent activities such as broadcasting information or raising awareness, where the engagement is relatively wide-reaching but shallow. Moving toward the center, activities become more interactive and participatory, culminating in shared decision-making and co-creation at the core.
The model helps organizations and initiatives reflect on the nature and depth of their engagement: Are we simply informing people? Are we consulting them to gain new perspectives? Or are we genuinely collaborating — involving the public as active partners in shaping decisions, directions, or outcomes?
institutional
Lack of Motivation/Intention & Habits
TML5
low
low
flexible
no
NGOs / local interest groups
shared public participation
english