After 35 years, the Miss Netherlands beauty pageant is drawing to a close as the contest is deemed “no longer of this time,” announced organiser Monica Van Ee. The decision reflects growing criticism faced by participants and evolving societal expectations about beauty contests.
Van Ee acknowledged the unique legacy of Miss Netherlands, particularly in recent years, but emphasized that the time had come to move in a new direction.
A primary factor influencing the decision was the relentless public criticism faced by contestants, often based on their ethnicity, convictions, or other personal attributes.
“Too White, Too Black, Too Criticized”
“The candidates would be accused of being too white, too black – or that they shouldn’t win regardless of their looks because of their convictions,” Van Ee explained. “This generates negative energy every year.”
The issue escalated in 2023 when Rikkie Kollé, the first transgender woman to win the title, faced significant backlash, including death threats. This controversy highlighted the growing challenges of hosting such contests in a polarized society.
Van Ee, together with current Miss Netherlands Amber Rustenburg, plans to launch a new platform aimed at empowering and supporting young women. The initiative will move away from the beauty pageant format to focus on fostering personal growth and positive societal impact.
Miss Belgium Remains Strong
Despite the developments in the Netherlands, the Miss Belgium beauty pageant is continuing as usual. Darline Devos, the organiser of the Belgian competition, expressed confidence in its relevance, citing a deep-rooted “miss culture” in the country.
“We still have 1,500 entries every year,” Devos said. “Here, the winner of Miss Belgium is our ambassador for a whole year. We ensure she is well-coached and prioritize mental health. She also represents Belgium at Miss Universe and Miss World.”
Devos contrasted the situation in Belgium with that of the Netherlands, noting that the fragmented system across the border dilutes the impact of the Miss Netherlands pageant. “There are actually three Miss Netherlands elections: one for Miss World, one for Miss Universe, and another Miss Netherlands.”
In Belgium, the winner receives significant press attention and a salary, reinforcing the role’s prestige.
Criticism and Evolving Roles
The Miss Belgium contest has not been immune to criticism. Detractors argue that it overly emphasizes physical appearance, particularly through elements like the bikini round. However, Devos dismissed these concerns as misplaced.
“It is ridiculous that we are criticized for this because girls themselves share bikini photos on Instagram,” she argued. “A bikini round is just part of a beauty pageant. People who call it superficial overlook what we actually accomplish.”
Devos pointed to environmental initiatives, such as planting a forest in Zwevegem, as examples of the broader educational and societal contributions made by participants.
As Miss Netherlands steps away from the stage, the contrasting trajectories of the two pageants reflect differing cultural values and the challenges of maintaining relevance in a changing world.
While the Netherlands opts for reinvention, Belgium holds firmly to its traditions, ensuring that its beauty queens remain both symbols of national pride and agents of social awareness.