Significance (or Importance) of Public Opinion in a Democratic Government:
1. Public opinion is considered to be the essential element for successful working of democratic communication in the system. Public Opinion is the expression of the views of citizens. No government can afford to ignore it.
2. A sound and effective public opinion can even shake the structures of dictators. The strength of democratic system lies in respecting the mind power of the people. There should be free and fair interaction of thoughts for solving the collective problems.
3. Public opinion acquires great relevance in realising this democratic goal. It promotes Wider Awareness and invites citizens to Examine Issues from different points of view.
4. Public opinion acts as a Powerful Force in International Sphere. Public opinion has acquired a worldwide importance. In fact, international relations are influenced by public opinion. In the age of globalization, the issues like promotion and protection of human rights, environment and discrimination based on race, religion or sex prevention of child labour, terrorism etc. hold international community answerable to public opinion.
Conclusion: Public opinion is very important therefore, the governments remain conscious of such international public opinion also. Infact, no democratic government can afford to ignore the public opinion.