Singapore Open to Considering Chemical Castration for Sex Offenders if Proven Effective: Shanmugam
The government said 762 molestation cases and 261 rape cases were reported in the first half of 2026 as it weighs tougher deterrence measures.
- On Tuesday, Home Affairs Minister Shanmugam said Singapore remains open to considering chemical castration if evidence proves such measures effectively reduce crime rates.
- Shanmugam responded to Aljunied GRC MP Gerald Giam regarding deterrents for sexual offences amid rising assault cases, with 762 molestation and 261 rape cases recorded in the first six months of 2026.
- Current laws impose heavy penalties for sexual crimes against minors under 14, including mandatory jail terms up to 20 years and caning. The Sentence for Enhanced Public Protection commenced in July, detaining serious sex offenders for five to 20 years.
- Home Affairs Goh Pei Ming said the government is evaluating expanded criminal record screening for roles involving sustained contact with children. Police already maintain a non-public register of serious offenders.
- The government aims to balance child safeguarding with rehabilitation of ex-offenders while considering voluntary screening for unregulated sectors. Shanmugam noted that evidence on pharmacological treatments remains inconclusive.
14 Articles
14 Articles
The Independent
The Independent (US)Singapore may consider chemical castration as punishment to reduce sex crimes
Home minister says evidence so far not conclusive about effectiveness of measure
Singapore May Consider Chemical Castration to Curb Sex Crimes
Singapore is open to considering anti-androgen treatments, informally known as chemical castration, if there’s clear evidence that such measures can reduce sexual offenses, Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam said in a response to a parliamentary question on Tuesday.
Singapore Open to Chemical Castration for S*x Offenders To Curb Crimes | 🌎 LatestLY
Singapore is open to considering chemical castration for s*x offenders if evidence shows it can reduce crime, Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam said in Parliament. However, he said current evidence is 'not conclusive.' The government is also considering broader screening for roles involving children, while existing laws impose severe penalties for serious s*xual offences. 🌎 Singapore Open to Chemical Castration for S*x Offenders To Curb Crimes.
Singapore Open to Considering Chemical Castration for Sex Offenders if Proven Effective
The Government has not decided to introduce chemical castration. Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam said Singapore remains open to the measure if clear evidence shows it can reduce crime, but current evidence is inconclusive.
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