Think Centre expresses grave concern and deplores PELU's rejection of TWC2 initiative to mark International Day Against Violence Against Women. Think Centre stands in solidarity with TWC2.
Think Centre is gravely concerned at the abject refusal of the relevant authorities in allowing another meaningful civil society initiative. The TWC2's application to hold a symbolic march from the Esplanade to Boat Quay to mark International Day Against Violence Against Women is another worthy cause driven by one of Singapore's few civil society organisation.
As a fellow civil society organisation committed towards the safeguarding and promotion of human rights in Singapore, Think Centre expresses its full support for the TWC2's public initiative "to bring the anti-violence message out in the open" known as the White Ribbon campaign. Think Centre sympathesizes with the TWC2's cause and deplores the Police's rejection of their application for even a permit to conduct a harmless song-and-dance performance.
Think Centre questions if there are any "internal criteria and/or policy" instructing the police/PELU not to issue permits for events promoting human rights? TC would like to question this infringement of our civil rights to promote public awareness of human rights.
Think Centre urges the authorities to re-think their archaic position on refusing public participation in civil society on weak grounds of "law and order considerations". It is an absolute disservice to the hard work of civil society and a disgrace to the State when frivolous entertainment acts of bar-top dancing are legitimised in comparison to significant public displays of anti-violence.
As such, Think Centre stands in solidarity with the TWC2 and calls for other civil society organisations to step forth and voice their support on this issue.
Sources and Relevant Links:
Think Centre PELU rejects: Stop violence against women event
Think Centre Children's Day Installation art application rejected again
The China Post
Anti-violence events banned in Singapore
24 Nov 2003
Singapore law requires a police permit for any public gathering of five or more people. The government says its strict laws are needed to maintain social order — a big selling point for foreign investors, who are considered crucial to this wealthy but resource-poor city-state.
