Which civic duty helps ensure government accountability?

Voting in elections is a fundamental civic duty that plays a crucial role in ensuring government accountability. By participating in elections, citizens express their preferences and opinions about government policies and the individuals who represent them. This process allows voters to hold elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions. If representatives fail to meet the needs and expectations of their constituents, voters have the power to remove them from office in subsequent elections.

Engagement in the electoral process fosters transparency, as candidates must communicate their platforms and policies to the public, allowing citizens to make informed choices. Furthermore, the act of voting reflects the principle of democracy, where the government derives its legitimacy from the consent of the governed. This encourages elected officials to remain responsive to the electorate, as their political future hinges on the votes they receive.

In contrast, ignoring government policies, engaging in civil disobedience, or discussing politics only in private do not actively promote accountability. These approaches may limit public discourse and citizen participation in governance, which are vital for a vibrant and responsive democracy.