Civil liberties are deeply intertwined with government surveillance, often raising concerns about privacy and individual rights. In democratic societies, surveillance measures are justified for national security and crime prevention. However, excessive surveillance can infringe on freedoms such as expression and association, fostering a climate of fear and self-censorship among citizens. The balance between ensuring security and safeguarding liberties is crucial; failure to maintain this balance can lead to public distrust in government and erosion of democratic values.