What are the statistics for ageism in Singapore?

According to the Ministry of Manpower's 2023 report, age discrimination was the most prevalent form of bias among jobseekers in Singapore, affecting 18.1% of applicants. This provides a direct insight into the issue and helps answer: What are the statistics for ageism in Singapore?

Quick Summary

Ageism remains a notable concern in Singapore's workforce, despite a general downward trend in overall discrimination cases. Surveys from MOM, IPS, and others reveal that older jobseekers face significant bias, often related to training and promotion opportunities, even as government policies are strengthened to promote fairer employment practices.

Key Points

• Prevalence in Job Search: Age discrimination is the most prevalent form of bias among jobseekers in Singapore, according to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in 2023.

• Higher Impact on Older Workers: Older workers, particularly those aged 50 and above, are disproportionately affected by age discrimination during job searches.

• Growing Public Perception: Public perception suggests ageism is rising in Singapore more than other forms of prejudice, despite overall declines in reported discrimination.

• Policy Response: The Singapore government is implementing new Workplace Fairness Legislation to strengthen protections against age discrimination in employment.

Key Statistics on Ageism in Singapore

Understanding the landscape of ageism in Singapore requires examining data from several key surveys conducted by government bodies and research firms. These reports shed light on different facets of the issue, from direct experience to perception.

Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Reports

The MOM's Fair Employment Practices reports provide crucial data on the prevalence of workplace discrimination. While reporting a general decline in overall discrimination, the figures show a persistent issue with ageism.

Key findings from the 2023 report indicate that age discrimination was the most common form experienced by jobseekers at 18.1%, a slight rise from the previous year, and significantly higher than other types of discrimination. {Link: NTUC https://www.ntuc.org.sg/uportal/news/Workplace-discrimination-in-2023-continues-downward-trend/}.

Addressing Ageism Through Legislation and Awareness

To combat these issues, Singapore is introducing Workplace Fairness Legislation to strengthen measures against discrimination, including ageism. MOM and TAFEP initiatives also promote fair employment and educate employers. These efforts aim to change attitudes and value older workers' experience.

Conclusion

While some data shows a decline in overall discrimination, ageism in Singapore remains a significant issue, particularly for older jobseekers. {Link: NTUC https://www.ntuc.org.sg/uportal/news/Workplace-discrimination-in-2023-continues-downward-trend/}.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most current data on ageism in Singapore's job market?

According to the Ministry of Manpower's 2023 report, age discrimination was the most prevalent form of bias for jobseekers, affecting 18.1% of those discriminated against. The proportion of jobseekers aged 50 and above who experienced age-related bias was significantly higher, at 37.9%.

Is age discrimination on the rise in Singapore?

While the overall rate of workplace discrimination has seen a downward trend, recent surveys show a mixed picture for ageism. An IPS survey in July 2025 found more people perceived ageism to be on the rise than race or gender bias. The MOM data also showed a slight increase in age discrimination among jobseekers between 2022 and 2023.

How does ageism affect older employees in Singapore?

Older employees in Singapore face challenges such as limited training opportunities, being overlooked for promotions or career advancement, and even subtle pressure to retire. These issues contribute to career stagnation and can create a hostile work environment.

Are younger workers also concerned about ageism?

Yes, ageism is a concern across generations. A 2025 Michael Page report showed that while older workers have the highest levels of concern, many younger and mid-career professionals also worry about age-related incidents in the workplace.

What kind of age discrimination does Singapore's law address?

Singapore is in the process of enacting the Workplace Fairness Legislation, which aims to legally protect employees and jobseekers from discrimination, including age discrimination. This will expand the measures and penalties available to address such cases.

Is ageism a bigger problem in Singapore than other forms of discrimination?

According to MOM's 2023 report, age discrimination was the most cited form of bias for jobseekers compared to race and nationality. AWARE/Milieu's 2022 survey found it was the second most common form of discrimination overall, after race.

How can companies in Singapore combat ageism?

Companies can tackle ageism by implementing clear anti-discrimination policies, promoting fair employment practices, and providing equal access to training and development opportunities for all ages. Educating staff on unconscious biases can also help foster a more inclusive culture.