Singapore presented its progress in human rights, social inclusion, and legal protections during its fourth Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Digital Development and Information Rahayu Mahzam led Singapore’s delegation at the Universal Periodic Review held at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, on 12 May 2026.
Ms Rahayu highlighted Singapore’s efforts to build a more inclusive and resilient society while promoting and protecting human rights through an outcomes-based approach tailored to Singapore’s national context as a small and diverse city-state.
Singapore’s delegation, which included officials from eight government agencies, shared updates on progress made since the country’s previous review in 2021.
These included the enactment of the Workplace Fairness Act 2025, stronger support for vulnerable groups, improved access to justice, enhanced online safety measures, expanded digital inclusion efforts, and initiatives to strengthen social cohesion and address climate risks.
Ms Rahayu also highlighted Singapore’s continued investments in education, healthcare, housing, and lifelong learning to improve opportunities and quality of life for citizens.
A total of 142 countries participated in Singapore’s review, with many commending the country’s progress in workplace anti-discrimination laws, gender equality, racial and religious harmony, sustainable development, and migrant worker welfare.
Ms Rahayu noted that Singapore ranked 13th globally in the 2025 United Nations Human Development Index, first worldwide for public safety and law and order in the Gallup Global Safety Report 2025, and first in the Asia-Pacific region for gender equality in the 2025 United Nations Human Development Report’s Gender Inequality Index.
Responding to questions regarding Singapore’s criminal justice system and capital punishment policies, Ms Rahayu explained that Singapore’s laws are grounded in evidence, international law, and the country’s national circumstances.
She said Singapore values the Universal Periodic Review process as an important platform for countries to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights.
Ms Rahayu added that Singapore will study the recommendations received during the review and consider those relevant to the country’s context and long-term development goals.
Source: MFA
