How can governments strike a balance between protecting public health through restrictions on individual freedoms and maintaining trust and legitimacy with the public during times of crisis?

Governments can strike a balance by transparently communicating the rationale behind restrictions, providing clear guidelines for compliance, and involving the public in decision-making processes. They can also prioritize evidence-based policies and regularly evaluate the impact of restrictions on public health and individual freedoms. Building trust through consistent messaging, accountability, and responsiveness to public concerns can help maintain legitimacy during times of crisis.