Xenophobia in Singapore : a study on foreign talent.

Abstract

Xenophobia has emerged as a key issue in Singapore, with Singaporeans turning increasingly xenophobic in recent years. Being a multiracial and multicultural country dependent on foreign talent to sustain its economy, Singapore needs to address xenophobia to continue attracting foreign talent to Singapore as well as companies to set up subsidiaries here.

Drawing on both past and new research, this study seeks to identify the various issues that are contributing to xenophobia in Singapore, the groups of foreign talent that are more likely to draw xenophobic attitudes from Singaporeans, as well as the demographics of Singaporeans who are more likely to display xenophobic attitudes. The relative importance and urgency of the various issues are also considered.

Based on a sample size of 237 Singaporeans, results suggest that nationalism and education level were correlated to xenophobia, while income level, gender and macroeconomic knowledge were not correlated to xenophobia. Malaysian foreign talent are the least resented by Singaporeans, while PRC foreign talent are the most resented by Singaporeans. Results further suggest that overcrowding issues contributes to xenophobia the most, followed by economic issues, government perception issues and lastly, cultural issues.

This study contributes to literature covering xenophobia by looking into demographics of people who exhibit xenophobia, as well as providing insights into possible reasons for xenophobia.