ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights the activism in Singapore against torture and inhumane punishment in the country's recent history. It examines the legal compliance of the definition of torture and inhuman punishment in Singapore with international standards, and elaborates on the effects of such treatment upon those who receive it. In examining the interaction between the acts of the state and activism, the chapter focuses on three alleged victim groups: political prisoners who were detained under Operations Coldstore and Spectrum; migrant workers, and (3) judicial caning in Singapore. According to activists, four main effects of the state impede activism in this field: strict legislation and interpretation of the Constitution; a sense of fear induced by various methods, including the Internal Security Act; secrecy over evidence and documents, and inadequate attention towards claims.
