In what ways might public and international reactions influence a government's decision to engage in, or withdraw from, critical discussions?

I believe that those in office should not be influenced by most of the people. However, there are some cases when it is needed.

My option at the moment is mixed because I want to believe that the government would listen and actually do something about the things we complain about, but right now in the state it's in I don't think they will in fact they are more likely to do the opposite.

Have an age limit on who works in the government at about 70

Popular opinions influence a government's decision to engage or withdraw from critical discussion as a government will likely yield to public opinion.