Which of the following is considered an external stakeholder?

The local community is considered an external stakeholder because it exists outside the organization but is affected by its operations, decisions, and overall presence. External stakeholders include individuals or groups who do not have a direct interest or ownership in the company but are impacted by its performance, policies, and actions. The local community, for example, may be influenced by the company's environmental practices, employment opportunities it provides, or contributions to local development.

In contrast, owners, managers, and employees are all internal stakeholders. Owners are invested in the company's profitability and success, while managers are responsible for decision-making and operations within the company. Employees are directly involved in the day-to-day functioning of the business. Since these groups have a direct connection and vested interest in the company's success or failure, they are classified as internal stakeholders rather than external ones.