Singapore

This 63 island State is situated in South-East Asia, with the main island linked by a bridge to the southern tip of Malaysia. A former British colony and subsequent member of the Malaysian federation, Singapore has since become a fully independent parliamentary republic and its prosperity has meant that it serves as the region’s financial centre. Although the standard of living is high, it is known for the conservatism of its leaders as well as its strict social controls and violations of civil and political rights, including extensive censorship of the media. Corporal punishment and life imprisonment for children remain serious children’s rights concerns.