The topic of whether to keep or abolish the penal code that criminalises gays has been raised to prominence again since India’s Supreme Court decriminalised homosexuality. (Read about it here).
In a recent Facebook post comment, Tommy Koh, former ambassador, wrote: “I would encourage our gay community to bring a class action to challenge the constitutionality of Section 377A”.
Conservative groups are steadfast in their views that the law should remain to keep the family values intact for future generations. Religious leaders (National Council of Churches of Singapore and Pergas) have also gave their statements in not supporting the repeal, citing the ‘erosion of traditional family values’ as the main reason. This commentary opined that traditional does not mean it is beneficial for society, and these religious groups have be more precise in explaining ways in which legalising homosexuality actually erodes beneficial values of society.
Read more about the issue in this article: 55 per cent of Singapore residents support Section 377A: Ipsos survey
Analysis:
Section 377A has been in contention for many years. Despite the public conversations that take place every year, the decision to repeal this law cannot be made even as we see other conservative Asian societies making progress in loosening homosexuality laws and policies. For example, in Hong Kong, it has been announced that expatriates in same-sex marriages would be allowed to bring in their spouses on dependent visas. The authorities cite economic benefits for the city in attracting and retaining global talents.
Singapore leaders seem to look at this issue with a different lens, and religious groups have strong sway in this matter. While the norms may be shifting towards more acceptance and inclusion, leaders believe that social consensus has not been reached.
Questions for personal evaluation:
- What do you think makes it so difficult for us to come to a consensus?
- How involved should religious groups be in political issues when Singapore adopts a secular ideology? (Useful article to read for context: Religion’s place in Parliament, politics and policy)
Useful vocabulary:
- ‘Normative values’: prescribed, or standard set of values
Interesting trivia: here’s a video explaining how the word ‘gay’ evolved to mean homosexuality!