Hearings usually refer to meetings where a panel of politicians conducts a dialogue with an invited panel of experts which can also consist of people from concerned citizens, often in front of a larger group of visitors/public.
Through hearings, politicians can get a broad overview and knowledge of the topic/issue that the hearing refers to from various stakeholders, experts and those concerned. At the same time, everyone can ask complementary questions to each other and often there are good and fruitful discussions. Sometimes the chairman of the meeting ends the hearing with all the participants, politicians as well as the expert panel, getting to say what they take home from this meeting.
Resources are needed for information, communication and documentation of the hearing. Advertising, premises rental, rental of technical equipment, e.g. for a possible webcast etc.
From a few to several hours.
Quite simple to implement
All-round review and clarification of an important issue/topic in a short time that panelists, politicians and visitors receive at the same time.
Requires some form of competence of a meeting leader to conduct a hearing.
Preparation time necessary for all parties.