Singaporeans Express Divided Opinions on Making National Service Mandatory for Women

In Singapore, National Service (NS) is mandatory for all male citizens and Permanent Residents, who are required to serve in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), Civil Defence Force (SCDF), or Police Force (SPF) upon turning 18. Recently, the possibility of extending this mandatory service to women has sparked significant debate.

A 2013 study revealed that 10% of Singaporean women were open to volunteering for full-time NS. However, while 80% of respondents supported allowing women to contribute to national defense, only 25% favored a full two-year mandatory service. Furthermore, of those in favor, only 9.3% of women expressed a willingness to serve full-time.

A recent online forum post reignited the discussion, with one netizen asking critics to explain their opposition to women in NS. The debate has led to mixed reactions, with some arguing that national defense should be a collective responsibility, while others express concerns about potential disruptions to productivity, fertility rates, and family dynamics.

In contrast, some believe the declining birth rate in Singapore might make the inclusion of women in NS a practical step in the coming years. The debate continues as the nation grapples with the complexities of national defense and gender equality.