The writer, Evelyn Gan, who became a mother at the age of 26, discusses her personal experience in facing the challenges that come with motherhood, which forced her to give up her full-time career. Her experience reflects the reality of many mothers who find themselves in a constant struggle between personal ambitions and the demands of childcare.
As Singapore records its lowest historical fertility rate of 0.87, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong warned that this phenomenon represents an "existential challenge." The writer wonders if new policies will succeed in changing mindsets and increasing the fertility rate before her daughters decide to start their own families.
Event Details
Gan emphasizes that women are often told they can "have it all," but the reality is quite different. With only 24 hours in a day, mothers must juggle multiple roles, leading to significant mental and physical stress. According to data from the Ministry of Manpower, around 60% of women who left the workforce due to caregiving needs in 2025 were women.
The writer shares her personal journey, where she had to abandon her academic and professional aspirations after becoming a mother. She recounts how she expressed breast milk in a small bathroom between tasks and how her childcare arrangements suddenly fell apart, forcing her to leave a job she loved.
Background & Context
Historically, Singapore has faced challenges in increasing its fertility rate, as the government strives to promote policies that support mothers. However, societal pressures continue to mount on mothers to balance work and childcare. The writer notes that these pressures not only affect mothers but also place an additional burden on fathers.
Studies show that mothers face higher societal expectations than fathers to be "ideal parents," increasing the risk of burnout and mental stress. In this context, the writer questions how these pressures will impact her daughters' futures.
Impact & Consequences
The writer points out that mothers must confront a bitter reality of sacrifices they have to make. While societal expectations of mothers are increasing, the support provided to them does not match these expectations. She wonders how these pressures will influence her daughters' decisions to start their own families in the future.
The writer asserts that changes in government policies, such as paid parental leave, may be positive steps, but they are insufficient unless societal culture around family roles changes.
Regional Significance
Many Arab countries share the same challenges faced by Singapore, suffering from declining fertility rates and increasing pressures on mothers. Under these circumstances, it becomes essential to promote policies that support mothers and help achieve a balance between work and family life.
Ultimately, questions remain about how to balance personal ambitions with the demands of motherhood, necessitating radical changes in societal thinking and policy support.