In the context of government, who is typically labeled as a dissident?

The term "dissident" refers to an individual who actively opposes or disagrees with the established government or its policies. This opposition can manifest in various forms, including criticism, protest, or advocacy for alternative ideas or reforms. Dissidents often seek to draw attention to perceived injustices or the need for change and may be willing to challenge the authority of the state in pursuit of their political beliefs or goals.

In the context of the provided options, someone who supports the regime would not align with the definition of a dissident, as they are endorsing the current government. Similarly, a person working for change from within may not openly oppose the government but rather seeks to influence it from inside, distinguishing them from the more confrontational stance of a dissident. Lastly, a government official would typically be part of the regime rather than an opponent of it. Therefore, "a person opposing the government or its policies" accurately captures the essence of a dissident.