James Gomez

Civil society remains a central pillar in sustaining democratic systems, and its impact is strongest when it works in partnership with democracy-supporting political parties. Across Asia, as well as in Singapore however, these two actors often operate in parallel rather…

Testimonials from Singaporeans detained without trial under the Internal Security Act (ISA)  all state that this law functions more as a mechanism of political control and less as a tool for national security. There is no doubt that as a…

In Singapore, the death penalty is normalised within a segment of society where state-sanctioned killings are rationalised while showing little empathy for those condemned. How big and constant a “segment” still remains to be determined. In the meantime, the pro-death…

The passing of M. Ravi, and the negative reporting surrounding his death, is unlikely to diminish Singapore’s anti–death penalty movement or its broader critique of state overreach. If anything, the movement is poised to become more focused, disciplined, and less…

Dr. Chee Soon Juan, Secretary-General, Singapore Democratic Party (SDP), distinguished speakers, SDP colleagues, fellow Singaporeans, and friends. A very warm welcome to all of you. Allow me to first extend my gratitude to SDP’s Project Reform team, which made this gathering possible.…

For the past 60 years, Singapore’s elections have consistently returned the People’s Action Party (PAP) with a dominant parliamentary majority. The electoral system that has provided for such a result has been repeatedly called out by academics, analysts, civil society…