NDR 2021: New law to deal with racial offences, promote harmony through softer approach

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Apart from providing for punishments to deal with racial offences, the new law will also incorporate "softer and gentler touches" that focus on persuasion and rehabilitation. For instance, it will vest the authorities with powers to order someone who has caused offence to stop and make amends by learning more about the other race.

While the real solution to racism is to change attitudes, which takes time and effort, legislation can play a role

"Laws may not, by themselves, make people get along with one another or like one another," PM Lee noted. "But laws can signal what our society considers right or wrong, and nudge people over time to behave better."

Qn: To what extent can legislation influence behaviour?