How is a written objection by an interested party defined?

A written objection by an interested party is defined as a protest. This term specifically refers to a formal complaint or objection made by a participant in a process, typically in the context of bidding, contracts, or administrative procedures. When an interested party feels that their rights or opportunities have been compromised—such as during a procurement process—they may submit a protest to formally voice their concerns and seek a resolution.

Protests are an essential mechanism in ensuring transparency and fairness, allowing parties who believe they have been wronged to challenge decisions and actions taken by authorities or organizations. This can lead to re-evaluation or reconsideration of the issue at hand, therefore playing a critical role in maintaining equitable practices in contracting and procurement processes.

The other options, while related to dispute resolution, do not encapsulate the notion of a written objection by an interested party as effectively as the term "protest." For instance, claims typically refer to formal requests for the payment of damages or recompense, petitions involve requests for favorable treatment or action from an authority, and appeals deal with challenging decisions made by a lower authority or body. Thus, in the context of an objection from an interested party, "protest" is the most precise term.