A political analysis of the current landscape for the upcoming General Election (GE) in 2025 explores the effectiveness of the “flight to safety” strategy traditionally employed by the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore.
Analysts suggest that while this strategy has resonated with voters in the past, concerns over new tariffs imposed by the United States may challenge its efficacy.
Political scientist Chong Ja Ian highlights the PAP’s association with a narrative of vulnerability to evoke a “flight to safety” response from voters, stating, “Portraying acute vulnerability and crisis to elicit a ‘flight to safety’ or ‘flight to familiarity’ is an act many people associate with the PAP, rightly or wrongly.”
This strategy has been a cornerstone of the party’s approach in uncertain times, but the current geopolitical climate presents new challenges.
The impact of US tariffs on global markets and trade relations has exacerbated concerns about a potential trade war, leading to heightened anxiety in Singapore as it prepares for an election. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has acknowledged the economic ramifications of these tariffs on Singapore’s trade-dependent economy, emphasizing the need for resilience in the face of ongoing global uncertainty.
Divergent responses from political figures further underscore the complexity of the current environment. Leader of the Opposition Pritam Singh stresses unity amidst uncertainty, advocating for a diverse parliament and responsible opposition politics. In contrast, the Progress Singapore Party (PSP) has criticized the government’s reaction to the tariffs as alarmist, with Party chair Tan Cheng Bock suggesting that fear is being used as a tool to influence voters.
Analysts caution that the traditional “flight to safety” tactic may not yield the same outcomes in the upcoming election, as voters are more diverse and attuned to a variety of factors beyond global events. “It is human nature to fly to safety when they detect danger, but what entails safety might have changed over time,” notes political scientist Teo Kay Key.
The electorate is likely to consider a range of issues, including party branding, policy positions, and the performance of both the PAP and opposition members.
As Singapore navigates uncertainties on the global stage and grapples with domestic challenges such as housing affordability and cost of living, the upcoming election in 2025 promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping the country’s future.
“GE2025 will not simply be about laying out and identifying the risks Singapore faces externally and their domestic spillovers, it will involve coming up with a clear plan that all Singaporeans can get on board with,” emphasizes Assoc Prof Chong.
The current political landscape reflects a shift in voter priorities and expectations, with analysts highlighting the need for sincere communication and comprehensive policy approaches to address the evolving needs of the electorate.
Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, the upcoming General Election in 2025 is poised to test the resilience and adaptability of Singapore’s political framework.
