What is The Women's Charter?

What are some merits and criticisms of the Women's Charter in Singapore?

• It was enacted in the early 1960s. It may have been relevant and even necessary then. But has hardly changed till now. Is it still relevant in today's society or is it merely an outdated piece of legislation that does not take into account the changing roles of women in society? How should it be changed?

• Answer:

  I shall just deal with criticisms: Just by its name, it discursively privileges women. In other words because it's called the "Women's Charter" it benefits them (sometimes at the expense of men). It doesn't cover Muslim marriages. It outlaws gay marriage. Husbands can be made to pay maintenance for their wives but not vice versa. Marriages can be voided on grounds of non-consommation. It does not criminalise prostitution. Men above 21 who make a reasonable mistake about the age of a girl under 16 (the age of consent) still get nailed by the law if they have a "carnal connection" with her. In other words, even if she lies that she's 16 or above, or even shows false identification, the male is still liable.