The legal framework
Parliament repealed the provision criminalising sex between men in 2022. In the same session the Constitution was amended so that the statutory definition of marriage as between a man and a woman, and policies built on it, cannot be challenged in court. There is no legislation prohibiting discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation, and public housing and media rules continue to reflect the marriage definition.
Singapore did two things at once in 2022: it repealed the colonial provision criminalising sex between men, and it amended the Constitution so that the definition of marriage cannot be challenged in court, placing it beyond judicial reach and squarely with Parliament. The effect is decriminalisation without any movement toward recognition, and no statute prohibiting discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation.
Key points
| Criminal law | The provision criminalising sex between men was repealed in 2022 |
|---|---|
| Marriage | Defined as between a man and a woman; insulated from constitutional challenge |
| Discrimination | No statutory prohibition on grounds of sexual orientation |
| Public housing | Eligibility rules are built on the marriage definition |
| Media rules | Content regulation continues to reflect that framework |
| Health care | Accessible, including anonymous testing services |
| Organisations | Community organisations operate openly within defined limits |
In practice
- Repeal removed the criminal risk; it did not create any positive right or protection.
- Housing eligibility rules matter in practice more than the criminal law did: plan around them.
- Anonymous testing and sexual health services are available and confidential.
- Community organisations provide counselling and legal information.
Cost and coverage
Health services are subsidised for citizens and permanent residents; community counselling is generally free.
Recent changes
Section 377A was repealed in 2022 alongside a constitutional amendment protecting the definition of marriage from challenge; workplace fairness legislation has since been developed covering a defined list of characteristics.
Where to go
- Community counselling and support organisations.
- Anonymous sexual health testing services.
- Legal clinics providing free initial advice.
Worth knowing
The 2022 package was deliberately balanced: the criminal provision went, and the marriage definition was placed beyond judicial reach. Both halves matter when planning housing, parenthood or immigration.
Frequently asked questions
What did the 2022 repeal change?
It removed the criminal offence, which had not been actively enforced but had symbolic and practical weight. At the same time a constitutional amendment insulated the parliamentary definition of marriage from legal challenge, so recognition of same-sex relationships is now a purely political question.
Is there protection against discrimination?
No statute covers sexual orientation. Workplace fairness legislation has been developed covering listed characteristics; whether it extends here has been the subject of debate. Employers' own policies, particularly in multinationals, are often the only practical protection.
Official sources and links
- gov.sg — official government portal
- Singapore Statutes Online — legislation in force