Beauty pageants are a global phenomenon, and the news of a Pakistani woman allegedly competing on the international stage for the first time has generated both praise and criticism within the country. Erica Robin, a 24-year-old fashion model reportedly chosen to represent Pakistan in the Miss Universe competition, expressed her excitement and a sense of responsibility. She emphasized her commitment to not do anything that could harm Pakistan’s reputation.
While women of Pakistani descent have previously taken part in local beauty pageants in various countries, Pakistan itself has never had a representative at the Miss Universe competition until now. In an interview with Voice of America, Robin conveyed her eagerness for the competition and her pride in belonging to Pakistan. If she were to win, she would make history as Pakistan’s first representative at the El Salvador Miss Universe 2023 pageant on November 18, where contestants from 90 countries will compete.
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However, in a surprising turn of events, Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi stated that the government had not officially nominated anyone to represent Pakistan at the Miss Universe beauty pageant. The minister’s response came after a senior journalist questioned on social media who in the government had authorized the participation of five individuals in the contest.
Solangi clarified that the government and the state of Pakistan are represented by official state and government institutions. He emphasized that the government had not nominated any non-state or non-governmental individual or institution for such activities, and such entities could not represent the state or government.
The Miss Universe competition, with an estimated annual budget of $100 million, is jointly hosted by the United States and Thailand. It was founded on June 28, 1952, and each year, women from around the world participate, showcasing their intelligence, professional achievements, and dedication to social causes. The competition transcends barriers of race, caste, language, religion, and culture.
