What a country needs for being economically developed and prosperous? Perhaps many would say that plenty of resources is the answer. Well, not necessarily. A small and resource-limited country can also reach highest levels of development. What it needs is a good governance. The success story of Singapore comes to prove it. Young, with almost no resources, and spread on a tiny piece of land, the city-state managed to develop a strong economy with a competitive market, using a wise and effective governance. To understand what stands behind the success of Singapore, it is important to highlight 6 principles of good governance that reign in this tiny Asian country, contributing to its incredible growth.
- Zero Tolerance to Corruption
The first principle that defines the good governance in Singapore is the complete denial of any form of corrution in state institutions. Money, gifts or any other kind of bribery is eliminated totally from government and civil services, being subject to severe punishment. Some ministers have already been sent to jail for accepting bribes and encouraging corruption among public servants.
- Meritocracy
The second principle of good governance in Singapore is meritocracy. This means that every child, is entitled to formal education, regardless of race and religion. Every human being has the right to build his/her own personality, and be appreciated in the society for his/her capabilities, instead of facing obstacles to thrive because of his/her race, religion beliefs and language spoken.
- No Religious and Racial Divide
The principle of religious and racial harmony is successfully adopted in Singapore, helping people of different ethnicities and religious beliefs live in harmony in an economically thriving and strong society. Unlike other countries, where the principle of “divide and rule” is applied, Singapore government clings to the idea that people of all races and religion backgrounds must unite and work together towards the prosperous future of the country.
- Good Socialism Practices
Another key to success of Singapore is the implementation of a series of socialism practices that bring about social equity and equal chance to live decently. The government has developed a strong welfare system that subsides the education, housing and healthcare for all citizens, regardless of race and language spoken. In this way, the government puts value on each person living in the country, trying to provide everybody with decent living conditions, and give everybody the chance to thrive and advance up the social ladder.
- Rule of Law
Rule of Law ensures that everyone is treated equally in front of law. This principle is successfully applied in the governance of Singapore. In this way, no upper class members, ministers or businessmen are treated better by law than any other remaining members of the society. Everyone has the same rights and responabilities, receiving equal access to government support and being punished unreserved for a committed offence.
- Eco-Friendly Policies
In the era of great pollution, a good governance would be one that cares for environment and creates policies for reducing the impact of pollution. This is what the government of Singapore strives to do. It charged public environment services with the task of cleaning all the rivers, lakes and streets. Besides that, the government turned down investments that would lead to increased pollution.
