In response to heightened public safety and security concerns, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the National Parks Board (NParks) announced on Wednesday that they will not allow events and public assemblies associated with the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Authorities have reported their decision to deny applications to hold such events, emphasizing the need to maintain peace and harmony in Singapore amidst global tensions related to the conflict. The police and NParks have expressed their shared apprehensions about the potential risks involved.
Singapore’s Speakers’ Corner at Hong Lim Park, which serves as a platform for free speech and public gatherings, also falls under these restrictions. Prospective event organizers, including foreigners and non-Singapore entities, must now apply for a police permit through NParks. Furthermore, non-Singapore citizens need to secure a police permit to engage in public speaking at the Speakers’ Corner.
Singaporean authorities highlighted numerous instances of violence reported in other countries in connection with the Israel-Hamas conflict. These incidents, such as the stabbing of an Israeli staff member from the Israeli Embassy in Beijing and a fatal stabbing by an individual in France, underscore the concerns over international developments affecting local stability.
In a joint news release, the authorities emphasized the importance of safeguarding Singapore’s racial and religious harmony, urging citizens to avoid letting external events impact the nation’s internal situation. They cited the sensitive nature and volatility of the overseas situation as reasons for the ban on related events, emphasizing the risk of public disorder.
The Singapore Police Force underlined that public assemblies in the country are governed by the Public Order Act 2009. Organizing or participating in such gatherings without a police permit constitutes a legal offense under this act. SPF stated it would not issue permits for assemblies that promote the political causes of foreign countries or entities, which may incite emotions and public disorder.
In addition to regulating public assemblies, the police called upon the public to engage in responsible and respectful discussions about the Israel-Hamas conflict, both online and offline. They emphasized the need to avoid making insensitive or offensive remarks concerning race or religion, as this could threaten Singapore’s racial and religious harmony.
SPF reiterated its commitment to maintaining Singapore’s racial and religious harmony and pledged to take swift legal action against any individual whose remarks or actions could potentially harm these aspects of society.
