Question

A country cannot be truly democratic until its citizens have the opportunity to choose their representatives through elections that are free and fair. Critical development efforts cannot succeed without a legitimate and democratically elected government that is responsive and accountable to its citizens. Elections provide an important opportunity to advance democratization and encourage political liberalization. For an election to be free and fair, certain civil liberties, such as the freedoms of speech, association and assembly, are required. Elections can be a primary tool to foster political openings and expand political participation. Electoral processes offer political parties and civic groups an opportunity to mobilize and organize supporters and share alternative platforms with the public. Elections also serve to encourage political debate and public dialogue. –"Supporting Free and Fair Elections," US Agency for International Development What is the main idea of this passage?

1. Free and fair elections help a democracy choose good leaders.
2.Free and fair elections disenfranchise voters.
3. Free and fair elections are necessary for a democracy to function.
4.Free and fair elections provide voters with civil liberties.

Answer 1

C. Free and fair elections are necessary for a democracy to function

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

3. Free and fair elections are necessary for a democracy to function is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

As stated in the question, the excerpt belongs to "Supporting Free and Fair Elections." To support the correct answer it is necessary to mention that the speaker provides the results of elections ("provide an important opportunity to advance democratization and encourage political liberalization") and then, the characteristics of a fair and free election are described, appealing to freedom of speech and other rights that make a democracy work properly. The excerpt also describes other effects, such as the discussions and debates generated around them, so number 3 is the correct answer.