At the core of democracy is the duty of policymakers to consider the public’s voice. More than ever, people are demanding to be involved with issues that affect them—from climate change to rebuilding after the pandemic. As world leaders convene for the 76th United Nations General Assembly, no longer can experts say: “This is too complicated for you to understand.”Public debate and the exchange of ideas yield public consensus, and when policymakers consider this consensus, collective action occurs. But to ensure that this action is transformative, it needs to be guided by the best available science and fact.In an era of hyper-personalized media—when it becomes a challenge to distinguish between facts, interpretation, opinions, and misinformation—an open and transparent discourse that considers all the information is necessary if the public is to be reassured. Under the lens of public scrutiny, it’s not credible for policymakers to simply rely on the static—and sometimes entrenched—views of a few.In the tobacco industry, the need for an ongoing comprehensive and collective review of public opinion and the latest scientific data is critical in transforming the industry and for the benefit of public health. As with other global challenges, adults worldwide are calling for greater action and greater inclusion.