ISSUES IN WOMEN DEVELOPMENT IN SINGAPORE : AN ANALYSIS THROUGH SELECTED STATISTICAL MEASUREMENTS

Abstract

The development of a country is linked closely to the development of its women. However, a quantitative analysis of women development in Singapore as effected in this exercise, has yet to be attempted. Through the use of statistical indicators, this study hence aims to substantiate claims commonly made on the development of women in Singapore by wholesome investigation of the subject. The indicators are divided into three main components : the demographic, health and socio-economic. Demographic indicators show that population growth of Singapore women is favourable, and is projected to achieve developed population status by 2020. The median age of women have increased. Fertility rates have fallen drastically, a phenomena attributed to birth control methods more than to the postponement of marriage. Health indicators of women show that life expectancy of women has increased. The increase in life expectancy is even more apparent for women of aged 55 years and above. Maternal Mortality has reached negligible rates. Infant death rates for females have also reached all-time low levels, and are expected to fall at a much faster rate. Death patterns are typical of women in developed countries. Singapore women are increasingly dying from heart disease and cancers, especially breast and lung cancer. With the exception of breast cancer, these diseases are increasingly the death cause in women older than before. Socio-economic indicators show increased female labour force participation and financial independence. Although rates of no formal education remains high, literacy rates of women perform better. More women are pursuing higher education and are increasingly engaged in jobs requiring decision-making and professional qualifications. Marriage wise, more Singapore women are postponing marriage. By and large, the statistical indicators discussed have shown that women development in Singapore, have in many aspects, matched the standard of developed regions. Future policy directions should therefore take into account issues of concern to developed women.