Outdated policies reveal persistent biases despite progress in LGBTQ+ rights in Singapore.SINGAPORE: While the repeal of Section 377A marked a step forward for LGBTQ+ rights, policies like the lifetime ban on blood donation for men who have sex with men (MSM) highlight how entrenched prejudices continue to affect queer communities in Singapore.Currently, MSM face a lifetime ban from donating blood, regardless of their sexual health, relationship status, or adherence to safe sex practices. Meanwhile, individuals engaged in other "high-risk" behaviors, such as casual sex, face temporary deferrals of just three months.This policy originates from the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s, when limited knowledge about the virus prompted blanket bans on donations from MSM. However, advances in medical testing and safety measures have rendered such sweeping restrictions obsolete.A Global ShiftMany countries have moved towards inclusive blood donation policies. For instance, the UK now imposes a three-month deferral period for anyone engaging in anal sex with a new partner, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. This ensures safety while eliminating discriminatory practices.Beyond BloodThis ban perpetuates harmful stereotypes associating MSM with disease and promiscuity. It fails to account for monogamous relationships, safe sex practices, or advancements in HIV prevention, such as PrEP and regular testing.Inclusion in blood donation is about more than just policy—it reflects societal perceptions of queer people and their place in the community. By revisiting outdated laws, Singapore can take another step toward equality and fairness.
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Singapore Implements Policy as Booster Deadline Nears, Impacting Unvaccinated EmployeesCurrently, the government’s policy of fully covering COVID-19 medical expenses does not extend to individuals over 12 who have opted to remain unvaccinated by choice, she mentioned. This same rule will soon apply to adults over 18 who do not receive their booster shot within 270 …
Singapore — On Monday (Jan 10), Health Minister Ong Ye Kung confirmed that there are no current plans to introduce vaccinated-differentiated safe management measures (VDS) for children aged 12 and under."Children are less prone to severe illness when infected, and we aim to maintain universal access to a well-rounded education for all children," stated Mr. …
From violent insurrections to digital propaganda, the rise of far-right extremism reveals how misinformation can evolve into a serious national security threat.An insurrection might seem like a relic of the past, reminiscent of days when public executions were a routine spectacle. Yet, just last year, a crowd of Trump supporters violently stormed the US Capitol …
National Environment Agency reassures residents after reports of burning odors over the past two days.SINGAPORE: The National Environment Agency (NEA) announced on Wednesday night (Jan 12) that the "burning smells" reported in eastern Singapore over the last two days are not associated with any local industrial incidents or hotspots in the area.In response to inquiries …
Singaporean Badminton Star Begins 2022 Season with a WinSingapore's badminton prodigy Loh Kean Yew kicked off his year with a strong performance, defeating Canada's Sheng Xiaodong with scores of 16-21, 21-4, 21-13 in his opening match. Following his triumph at the World Championship in Huelva, Spain, on December 19, Loh is currently ranked 10th in …
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