Foreign Interference (countermeasures) Bill

Explore the details of bill number 24/2021.

Summary written by AI (learn more)

The Foreign Interference (Countermeasures) Bill aims to counteract foreign interference in Singapore's political and public processes via electronic communications and political donations.
The Act establishes mechanisms for designating "politically significant persons" and imposes obligations on them regarding political donations and foreign affiliations, including disclosure and reporting requirements.
It introduces various directives that allow authorities to restrict or prohibit online communications activities, particularly those linked to foreign influence, and to obtain necessary information from related entities.
The Bill imposes penalties for non-compliance with directions and requirements, including substantial fines and imprisonment for violations pertaining to political donations, foreign affiliations, and failure to disclose necessary information.
The Act includes provisions for oversight mechanisms, allowing appeals against decisions made under the Act, and establishes reviewing tribunals to handle such appeals.

Original PDF

Timeline

Bill introduced

The bill is formally presented in Parliament for consideration.

5 years ago

First reading

The bill's title and key objectives are read out, but no debate occurs at this stage.

5 years ago

Second reading

Members of Parliament debate the bill's general principles and overall merits.

5 years ago

Select committee

The bill is examined in detail by a select committee, which may suggest amendments.

5 years ago

Third reading

Members of Parliament debate the final version of the bill, including any amendments made.

5 years ago

Voting

The bill is voted on by the Members of Parliament and, if it receives the required majority, it becomes law. Do note that an exact vote may not be counted; the 'ayes' can simply be louder than the 'noes'.

5 years ago

Bill passed

The bill is passed and becomes law.

5 years ago

Foreign Interference (countermeasures) Bill

Explore the details of bill number 24/2021.

Summary written by AI (learn more)

The Foreign Interference (Countermeasures) Bill aims to counteract foreign interference in Singapore's political and public processes via electronic communications and political donations.
The Act establishes mechanisms for designating "politically significant persons" and imposes obligations on them regarding political donations and foreign affiliations, including disclosure and reporting requirements.
It introduces various directives that allow authorities to restrict or prohibit online communications activities, particularly those linked to foreign influence, and to obtain necessary information from related entities.
The Bill imposes penalties for non-compliance with directions and requirements, including substantial fines and imprisonment for violations pertaining to political donations, foreign affiliations, and failure to disclose necessary information.
The Act includes provisions for oversight mechanisms, allowing appeals against decisions made under the Act, and establishes reviewing tribunals to handle such appeals.

Original PDF

Timeline

Bill introduced

The bill is formally presented in Parliament for consideration.

5 years ago

First reading

The bill's title and key objectives are read out, but no debate occurs at this stage.

5 years ago

Second reading

Members of Parliament debate the bill's general principles and overall merits.

5 years ago

Select committee

The bill is examined in detail by a select committee, which may suggest amendments.

5 years ago

Third reading

Members of Parliament debate the final version of the bill, including any amendments made.

5 years ago

Voting

5 years ago

Bill passed

The bill is passed and becomes law.

5 years ago