Surveillance can significantly impact democratic freedoms by creating an environment of distrust and fear among citizens. When individuals are aware of being monitored, it can lead to self-censorship and a reluctance to express dissenting opinions, ultimately stifling free speech. This erosion of privacy poses risks to civic participation and the ability to mobilize for social or political change. A balance must be struck between security and the protection of civil liberties to ensure that surveillance does not compromise the foundation of a healthy democracy.