What lessons can Singapore draw from the Norwegian Welfare system for its family policy? A comparative study between Norway and Singapore’s family policies

• Main Author: Chan, Vivian Ker Ling
• Other Authors: Woo Jun Jie
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2017
• Subjects: DRNTU::Humanities
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/72535
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This paper is written on the premise of social capital, family policy, and how the two complement each other to create conditions for holistic progress in a state. It draws inspiration from Norway’s highly successful family policy structure, forming the bedrock for discussion of possible policy transference. Through 15 semi-structured interviews, this paper attempts to gain insight on Singaporeans’ attitudes towards existing policies, and their opinions on potential policy changes influenced by elements of Norwegian policies. The interviews also prompted an analysis of Singaporeans’ culture-based perspectives and attitudes, which made for an interesting synthesis. The paper concludes by acknowledging that while complete policy transference is not possible due to a multitude of factors (with cultural factors being the most apparent), Norwegian policies still provide policy learning for Singapore. The paper ultimately argues that there is a need for rejuvenation of family policies in Singapore.