New bill seeks to protect individuals from discrimination in workplaces
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has introduced the Workplace Fairness Legislation to Singapore's Parliament.
The bill seeks to establish fair employment practices and protect individuals from discrimination by employers on the ground of protected characteristics, which are:
The bill further wants to preserve "harmonious workplace relations in Singapore," as well as ensure that citizens and permanent residents are fairly considered for employment opportunities.
According to the bill, citizens and permanent residents should continue to form "the core of the workforce" in Singapore, with foreigners as a complement.
Meanwhile, the proposed legislation also outlines corrective action against errant employers, who will be subject to punitive action for serious breaches, The Straits Times reported.
But the bill is only the first phase of the Workplace Fairness Legislation, according to the report, citing MOM.
The ministry said it is splitting the bill in two to give employers time to prepare for the legislation. This first bill outlines the principles in protecting workers, as well as the processes for dispute resolution.
The second part of the Workplace Fairness Bill is set for introduction next year, according to The Straits Times. This next phase is expected to outline the claims procedures and will require amendments to the Employment Claims Act.
Both bills are expected to be implemented in 2026 or 2027 if passed, The Straits Times reported.
The Singapore National Employers Federation said it "fully supports" the Workplace Fairness legislation.
"Through SNEF's leadership in the Tripartite Committee on Workplace Fairness, we have successfully ensured that the WFL strikes a crucial balance. It maintains operational flexibility for employers while establishing a fair enforcement framework for breaches," the SNEF said in a statement.
According to the federation, a vast majority of employers in Singapore are already deeply committed to fair employment practices.
"Therefore, we advocate for a WFL that enhances workplace fairness without imposing significant administrative or compliance burdens, ultimately supporting employers in their pursuit of a positive and equitable work environment."
It urged employers in Singapore to look at the legislation as "more than just a compliance requirement."
"Embracing the principles of fairness is essential for cultivating cohesive and inclusive workplaces," it said. "An inclusive environment serves as a strategic advantage for employers – it significantly boosts employee engagement, enhances talent attraction and retention, and ultimately strengthens the competitiveness of our businesses."
The bill comes as discrimination against employees and jobseekers continued its downward trend in 2023. Data released by MOM this year showed that the incidence of discrimination among employees decreased to six percent, while among jobseekers, it dropped to 23.4% in 2023.
