What fundamental protection do citizens have against government forces?

The fundamental protection citizens have against government forces, particularly in terms of ensuring that governmental actions are subject to legal scrutiny, is the protection from unreasonable seizure. This principle is enshrined in the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. It safeguards individuals from arbitrary or unjustified actions taken by law enforcement and prohibits excessive force or searches that lack probable cause or a warrant. This is essential for maintaining personal privacy and autonomy against the overreach of state power.

While the right to bear arms, the right to privacy, and freedom of speech are all critical rights that contribute to individual freedoms, the specific context of government accountability in the use of force is directly addressed by the protection from unreasonable seizure. This protection ensures that citizens have a legal recourse against inappropriate government actions, reinforcing the rule of law and civil rights.