Singapore's civil society has been given a mention in this year's National Day Rally speech so that the local media can play it up as an area of significant policy change.

At the same time civil society groups need to be aware that their demands for greater freedom may be subverted by referring to this latest proffering of 'freedoms' as evidence that there is space for a vibrant civil society. That is, if an effective reply is not offered.

Announcements made on 22 August 2004 that all indoor talks can now be held without a licence from the police and that people can now hold performances and exhibitions at the Speakers' Corner without having to apply for a licence will mean a few things, only a few things.