Sex trafficking in Singapore

Sex trafficking victims in the country are from all ethnic groups in Singapore and foreigners.[1] Singaporean citizens and foreigners, primarily women and girls, have been deceived,[2][3][4][1] threatened,[4] and forced into prostitution[3][5][6] and unfree labour.[3] They are often forced to wear revealing clothing and high heels.[2] Many come from poverty and have little education.[3][5] Perpetrators confiscate their passports[4] and other documents[1] and guard or lock-up the women and girls.[3] Some force them to sign phony contracts in a foreign language they cannot read.[3] Sex trafficked victims experience physical and psychological trauma.[2][5] Abuse is prevalent[4][5] and they contract sexually transmitted diseases from rapes without condoms.[1] Malnutrition and food deprivation also occur.[1] A number have depression[4] and suicidal thoughts because of the trauma.[6] Some are coerced to become sex traffickers themselves.[5]

Sex trafficking and exploitation is pervasive throughout all levels of Singaporean society. Male and female perpetrators in Singapore come from diverse backgrounds. A number of traffickers are members of or facilitated by criminal syndicates and gangs.[7][5] Perpetrators are increasingly using websites and messaging apps to lure victims.[3]

The Singapore government has made major efforts to curb sex trafficking in the country. In recent years tougher penalties were passed into law aimed at traffickers, which has caused a sharp decline in such crimes. Ever since, trafficking has no longer been considered a major issue.[8][9]

The government of Singapore has been criticised for not having adequate victim protection efforts.[1]

Hagar International carries out anti-sex trafficking efforts in Singapore.[6]