Singapore workplace bias climbs, reversing inclusion gains

The rise comes after a notable drop in 2023, when reported discrimination levels fell to 25% from a high of 52% in 2022.

Workplace discrimination in Singapore has surged to 33%, marking an 8% increase from the previous year and reversing hard-won gains in inclusion, according to new findings from ADP’s People at Work 2025 report.

The rise comes after a notable drop in 2023, when reported discrimination levels fell to 25% from a high of 52% in 2022. With the latest figures, Singapore now exceeds the Asia Pacific average of 19%, underscoring a widening gap in workplace fairness.

The report found that ethnic minorities in Singapore are disproportionately affected, with 55% experiencing bias. Gender-based discrimination persists as well, with 27% of women and 34% of men reporting unfair treatment.

The data also showed discrimination isn't confined to junior staff. Globally, more than one in four executives say they face discrimination — twice the rate reported by individual contributors.

Younger workers are particularly affected, with 23% of those aged 18–26 reporting bias, compared to just 11% of those aged 55–64.

The impact goes beyond morale. Workers who face discrimination are twice as likely to actively look for new jobs (34%) compared to those who don’t (14%), highlighting a clear link between inclusion and retention.

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