Read the passage and answer the question:

The Soviet system, however, became very bureaucratic and authoritarian, making life very difficult for its citizens. Lack of democracy and the absence of freedom of speech stifled people who often expressed their dissent in jokes and cartoons. Most of the institutions of the Soviet state needed reform: the one- party system represented by the Communist Party of the Soviet Union had tight control over all institutions and was unaccountable to the people. The party refused to recognise the urge of people in the fifteen different republics that formed the Soviet Union to manage their own affairs including their cultural affairs. Although, on paper, Russia was only one of the fifteen republics that together constituted the USSR, in reality Russia dominated everything, and people from other regions felt neglected and often suppressed.

What were some of the key challenges faced by citizens in the Soviet system?
1) Excessive democracy and an abundance of freedom of speech
2) Bureaucracy and authoritarianism
3) Equal representation and transparency
4) Abundant opportunities for dissent

2

The correct answer is Option 2 -2

2) Bureaucracy and authoritarianism

As per the passage:

The Soviet system, however, became very bureaucratic and authoritarian, making life very difficult for its citizens.