Singapore’s New Election Laws Target Digital Misinformation in 2025 Vote

In a bid to safeguard the integrity of its democratic process, Singapore has introduced groundbreaking legislation to combat digital misinformation ahead of its 2025 general election. Announced by the Elections Department (ELD) on April 15, 2025, the new rules under the Elections (Integrity of Online Advertising) Act ban the use of digitally generated or manipulated content that misrepresents candidates’ speech or actions. With the campaign period set to run from April 23 to May 2, and polling day on May 3, these measures mark a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by technology in modern elections.

A First for Singapore: Tackling Digital Deception

The introduction of the Elections (Integrity of Online Advertising) Act represents a pioneering effort to curb the spread of fake or altered online material during an election cycle. The ELD emphasized that such content—created using generative artificial intelligence, Photoshop, dubbing, or splicing techniques—will be strictly prohibited if it distorts a prospective or nominated candidate’s words or actions. “Publishing digitally generated or manipulated online election advertising that realistically misrepresents a candidate is prohibited during the election period” said an ELD spokesperson on April 15, underscoring the government’s commitment to truthfulness in political representation.

This move comes amid growing global concerns over “deepfakes” and other forms of digital manipulation that can sway public opinion by spreading false narratives. Singapore, known for its stringent regulatory framework, aims to set a precedent in ensuring that election campaigns remain grounded in factual discourse. The public can access an updated list of prospective candidates on the ELD’s website, providing a resource to verify information during the heated campaign period.

Campaign Guidelines: Balancing Expression and Regulation

Beyond digital content, the ELD has outlined comprehensive guidelines for the 2025 election campaign, which begins after nomination proceedings on April 23 and concludes on Cooling-off Day, May 2. One notable restriction is the ban on new banners, flags, and posters constituting election advertising until nomination proceedings end. Existing displays, such as those by town councils bearing names or symbols of potential candidates, will be regulated from April 15 to prevent public misperception as election material. However, permanent location markers indicating a political party’s office or activities are exempt if they meet specific criteria, such as being permanently affixed and solely for identification purposes.

Physical campaigning, including walkabouts and house visits, is permitted without police permits if conducted to meet residents. However, these activities must avoid explicit support or opposition to any person, group, or government. Online campaigning through social media, websites, podcasts, and emails falls under the Parliamentary Elections Act 1954 and related regulations, with strict rules on transparency. Only political parties, candidates, and their agents can publish paid online election ads unless others receive written authorization. Singapore citizens, however, may post unpaid ads independently.

All online advertisements, paid or unpaid, must display the names of those involved in their publication, with paid ads requiring a statement indicating sponsorship. These “published-by” rules do not apply to individual citizens posting unpaid content on their own accord. During the Cooling-off Period on May 2 and Polling Day on May 3, all election advertising must cease, though pre-existing online content can remain without resharing or boosting.

Protecting Sovereignty: Restrictions on Foreign Involvement

A key pillar of Singapore’s election framework is the exclusion of foreign influence. The ELD has explicitly barred non-citizens and foreign entities from participating in any election activity, including publishing or displaying election advertising. “The outcome of Singapore’s elections must be for Singaporeans alone to decide” said the ELD in its April 15 statement, reinforcing the principle of national sovereignty in the democratic process.

Candidates are also urged to remain vigilant against foreign interference, avoiding solicitation of foreign support and staying alert to suspicious behaviors. This emphasis on independence reflects Singapore’s broader geopolitical stance, where maintaining autonomy in domestic affairs is paramount, especially in an era of heightened digital connectivity and potential external meddling.

Keeping Campaigns Civil: Ethical Standards and Enforcement

The ELD has called on candidates and their representatives to campaign responsibly, avoiding negative tactics based on hate or denigration of opponents. False statements, unfounded allegations of corruption or criminal offenses, and rhetoric that could incite racial or religious tensions are strictly discouraged. “Candidates should campaign in a responsible and dignified manner that befits the seriousness of the election process” said the ELD, highlighting the importance of maintaining social cohesion in a multi-ethnic society like Singapore.

Enforcement of display rules will be managed by Aetos Security Management, authorized by the Returning Officer appointed by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Political parties have a three-hour window to remove non-compliant materials after notification, failing which Aetos may intervene, with removal costs charged to candidates as part of their election expenses. Additionally, restrictions extend to the use of films under the Films Act 1981, which prohibits party political films unless they are factual, objective, and undistorted. Exceptions are narrowly defined, ensuring that visual media does not become a tool for subjective political messaging.

Surveys and Polls: A Tight Rein on Public Opinion Data

In a further effort to maintain a rational electoral environment, the ELD has banned the publication of election surveys, exit polls, or related content from the issuance of the Writ of Election until the close of polling on May 3. This includes opinion surveys on voter preferences or candidate-associated issues, as well as forecasts based on post-voting information. The public is advised against creating or sharing such content on social media, online forums, or messaging services during this period, with reposting also considered a breach.

This regulation aims to prevent premature speculation or influence on voter behavior, aligning with Singapore’s broader approach to keeping politics focused on policy and merit rather than populist sentiment. By curbing the spread of potentially divisive or misleading data, the government seeks to foster a level playing field for all candidates.

Broader Implications: Singapore’s Model for Digital-Age Democracy

Singapore’s 2025 election laws arrive at a time when democracies worldwide grapple with the dual-edged nature of technology. The rise of artificial intelligence and digital editing tools has made it easier than ever to create convincing falsehoods, undermining trust in electoral processes. By proactively addressing these risks, Singapore positions itself as a leader in adapting democratic mechanisms to the digital age. The ban on manipulated content could serve as a blueprint for other nations, particularly in Southeast Asia, where internet penetration and social media usage continue to grow rapidly.

However, the stringent regulations also raise questions about the balance between oversight and freedom of expression. While the ELD’s rules are designed to protect candidates and voters, some observers may wonder if they risk overreach, potentially stifling legitimate critique or satire under the guise of preventing misinformation. The challenge lies in enforcing these laws without curtailing the vibrant online discourse that characterizes modern political campaigns.

Moreover, the emphasis on barring foreign involvement reflects a cautious stance in a region often seen as a geopolitical chessboard. Singapore’s insistence on electoral autonomy sends a clear message about its determination to shield domestic politics from external pressures, a priority that resonates with its history of navigating complex international dynamics.

Looking Ahead: A Test for Integrity and Innovation

As Singaporeans prepare to cast their votes on May 3, 2025, the upcoming election will serve as a litmus test for these new regulations. The effectiveness of the digital misinformation ban, alongside other campaign rules, will likely shape future policy in Singapore and beyond. For now, candidates must navigate a tightly regulated landscape, balancing the need to connect with voters through both traditional and digital means while adhering to strict ethical and legal standards.

With the dissolution of the 14th Parliament by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on the advice of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, the stage is set for a pivotal moment in Singapore’s political history. As the nation watches, the question looms: can these measures ensure a fair and transparent election in an era defined by technological disruption?