CNA Explains: What is chemical castration and can it reduce sex crimes?

Singapore's government is considering the implementation of chemical castration for sex offenders if evidence proves it effectively reduces recidivism. While the practice is used in several other countries, officials acknowledge that current data on its long-term effectiveness remains inconclusive.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing global debate regarding the balance between criminal justice reform, human rights, and public safety measures.
Singapore is open to considering the measure if there is clear evidence it reduces crime, while countries from South Korea to the United States have adopted it in different forms.
A medical worker preparing a syringe for an injection. (File photo: iStock/ipopba)
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