Policy evaluation : an analysis of the pioneer generation package and its impact on political participation

Abstract

Introduced in 2015, the Pioneer Generation Package is a scheme intended for the elderly in Singapore. Meant to help defray increasing healthcare expenses as well as to honor the contributions of the pioneers in early nation-building years, this policy has caused sentiments about it to be split. Some called it an election tool of the incumbent party, intended to draw more votes. Others welcome the redistribution of resources while strengthening social welfare nets. At the same time, the proliferation of new media platforms has added to the complexity of policymaking. Digital media has also influenced civic engagement in profound ways. How then, has the package affected citizens’ political participation, if any affect at all? Is the package really a political tool that the ruling party capitalized on? These will be explored in this paper along with the possible implications.