In an effort to maintain public safety and security, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the National Parks Board (NParks) have announced a strict prohibition on events and public assemblies related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. This announcement, made on Wednesday, effectively denies applications to organize such gatherings.
The authorities have cited “public safety and security concerns” as the primary reason for this decision, underlining the heightened tensions associated with the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. NParks, responsible for Hong Lim Park’s Speakers’ Corner, has received applications for related events, all of which are to be rejected in line with the SPF’s assessment.
The Speakers’ Corner is a designated area for public gatherings and events in Singapore, but those wishing to use it must first submit an application to NParks. Importantly, foreigners and non-Singapore entities are required to obtain a police permit to organize or assist in organizing an event at the Speakers’ Corner. Non-Singapore citizens must also secure a police permit for public speaking at this venue.
Recent international incidents related to the Israel-Hamas conflict were cited as cautionary examples. Among these incidents, the statement mentioned the stabbing of an Israeli staff member from the Israeli Embassy in Beijing and a fatal stabbing by a Chechen individual in France.
The statement further emphasized the sensitivity and volatility of the conflict overseas, suggesting that events related to it could potentially lead to public disorder in Singapore.
Therefore, applications to hold such events will be firmly rejected.
The Singapore Police Force reminded the public that public assemblies in the country are regulated under the Public Order Act 2009, and organizing or participating in one without a police permit is considered an offense under this act.
SPF explicitly stated that it will not grant permits for assemblies advocating political causes of other countries or foreign entities, or those that might provoke emotions and result in public order incidents.
In a stern message, SPF called on the public to engage in responsible and respectful discussions about the Israel-Hamas conflict, whether online or offline.
They urged individuals to avoid making insensitive or offensive remarks about race or religion, as such comments could threaten Singapore’s racial and religious harmony.
The police affirmed their commitment to addressing acts that could potentially harm racial and religious harmony in Singapore swiftly and in accordance with the law.
