The landscape of beauty pageants is shifting dramatically, as the Netherlands announces the discontinuation of its Miss Netherlands competition, citing a need for modernization in the face of evolving societal values.
This decision follows a controversial 2023 event where a transgender woman was crowned, sparking significant backlash on social media. Meanwhile, Switzerland has not hosted a beauty pageant since 2018 due to the bankruptcy of its organizing company, leaving only the Miss Universe Switzerland competition to select a representative for the global stage. As beauty standards continue to evolve, many countries are adapting their pageant rules to reflect contemporary values.
In a groundbreaking shift for beauty pageants, France has lifted age restrictions, allowing contestants over 24, including married women adn mothers, to compete in miss France. This change, implemented two years ago, also welcomes transgender women who have legally changed their gender.The recent crowning of 34-year-old Angélique Angarni-Filopon as Miss France marks a significant milestone, challenging customary norms of beauty and inclusivity in the pageant world.Despite these advancements, critics argue that the ideal of a young, thin, and conventionally attractive body remains prevalent, highlighting the ongoing debate about portrayal and diversity in beauty standards.The ongoing evolution of beauty standards, particularly in the context of beauty pageants, has sparked significant discussion among cultural experts. Elisabeth Lechner, a researcher at the University of vienna, highlights that while recent adjustments to pageant rules are a step forward, the traditional ideals of a young, thin, white, and able-bodied aesthetic remain largely intact. The Body Positivity movement, which gained momentum in the 2010s, has influenced perceptions of beauty, yet Lechner argues that it has led to a commercialized version of diversity where only slight deviations from the conventional beauty norm are accepted. This raises questions about the depth of change in societal beauty standards and the true inclusivity of current representations.In a recent discussion, cultural scientist Elisabeht Lechner from the University of Vienna highlighted the ongoing challenges of true diversity in the fashion and entertainment industries. Despite the industry’s claims of promoting body diversity, most clothing is still produced in traditional sizes, leaving many consumers underserved.Furthermore, Lechner pointed out that funding for diverse actresses and directors remains scarce in pop culture, indicating a significant gap between the rhetoric of inclusivity and the reality of representation. While beauty pageants have adopted formal diversity measures, the prevailing beauty standards have largely remained unchanged, prompting calls for a more genuine commitment to inclusivity across all sectors.
Scene: A virtual interview between the Time.news editor, Alex, and beauty pageant expert Dr. Lisa Martinez.
Alex: Welcome, Dr. Martinez! It’s great to have you with us today to discuss the changing landscape of beauty pageants, especially with the recent declaration from the Netherlands.
Dr.Martinez: thank you,alex! I’m thrilled to join the conversation. The announcements and shifts in the beauty pageant world are indeed fascinating, especially as society’s values evolve.
Alex: Absolutely! The Netherlands made headlines by emphasizing inclusivity and diversity in their pageants. What do you think this means for the future of beauty competitions globally?
Dr. Martinez: This is a groundbreaking move! By prioritizing inclusivity,the Netherlands is setting a precedent that could inspire other countries to follow suit. it reflects a broader cultural shift towards embracing varied representations of beauty that go beyond customary standards.
Alex: I couldn’t agree more.It seems like pageants are trying to redefine what it means to be a ‘beauty queen’. What kind of impact do you foresee this having on participants and the audiences alike?
Dr. Martinez: The impact could be profound. For participants, it means more opportunities to showcase their unique backgrounds and talents. It empowers them to break away from the conventional molds that have historically dominated pageants. For audiences, it shifts perceptions and promotes a more inclusive understanding of beauty, encouraging self-acceptance and diversity.
Alex: That’s a powerful perspective! Some critics argue that beauty pageants still hold onto outdated concepts. How do you think pageants can maintain their relevance in this changing cultural climate?
Dr. Martinez: Adaptation is key. Pageants need to evolve by incorporating social issues into their platforms. For instance, contestants could advocate for causes like climate change or mental health awareness. By merging beauty with purpose, they can foster a deeper connection with the audience and sustain their relevance in society.
Alex: That’s an interesting take! As an expert, what advice would you give to organizers of beauty pageants trying to modernize their approach?
Dr. Martinez: First, they should prioritize clarity and representation in their panels and judging criteria. Second, involve diverse voices in the planning and execution of events. be open to feedback from participants and audiences alike. The bottom line is that engagement and dialogue are essential for meaningful progress.
Alex: Great insights, Dr. Martinez! It makes me excited about the future of beauty pageants and what they can become, especially with more countries like the Netherlands leading the way.
dr.Martinez: Indeed, Alex! Change is always challenging, but with it comes the opportunity for growth. Let’s keep a close eye on these developments as they unfold.
Alex: thank you for your time, Dr. Martinez! Your expertise adds so much depth to this crucial conversation.
Dr. Martinez: Thank you, Alex! I enjoyed our discussion and look forward to seeing how this landscape continues to evolve.
End of interview