Singapore: How changes to the law may protect women duped into prostitution

Fifteen changes to the Women’s Charter – Singapore’s law to keep women and children safe – were laid out in Parliament on Monday (Oct 7, 2019), and revolved around sex work in the country.

Changes in the law will see stiffer penalties for offenders found guilty of exploitation. Experts shared that while the punishments may act as a deterrent, prosecution continues to be a challenge where criminals routinely find ways to circumvent the law. While the amendments are to be welcomed, there is scope for more to be done. More understanding of sex work in Singapore is needed to ensure women and girls are not exploited.

“While the harsher penalties may improve deterrence, this alone will not help eradicate the presence of vice activities if the demand for commercial sex continues. More needs to be done in the areas of education and awareness raising of such issues in Singapore.” Michael Chiam, Executive Director for Hagar Singapore

Human trafficking continues to be prevalent in our modern society, affecting every country in the world. Singapore is a popular transit hub and destination point for trafficking activities. With a third of its workforce comprising foreigners, close to a million migrant workers are vulnerable to trafficking, exploitation and abuse.

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