THE FIRST BEAUTY PAGEANT, Miss World, was created in 1951 by Eric Morley in the UK. Miss Universe debuted a year later, in 1952. Eight years later, in 1960, Miss International was created. Miss Earth came in 2001.
Every year, millions tune in to watch contestants strut across stages in shimmering gowns, skimpy clothing, perfectly styled hair and dazzling smiles. For decades, beauty pageants have been marketed as celebrations of grace, intelligence and empowerment. But are these competitions truly empowering platforms for women, or do they perpetuate outdated values and beauty standards? In an era where gender equality, body diversity and body positivity are at the forefront of social discourses, many question if beauty pageants— often also a multimillion-dollar industry shaped by sponsorships, media influence and commercial interests—are still relevant.
