Paul Morrell, the founder and director of the Men Empowerment Network (MEN), has voiced significant concerns regarding the prevalence of beauty pageants in Fiji, labeling them potentially exploitative. His comments surfaced amid increasing discussions about allegations relating to bullying and body shaming associated with the Miss Fiji Pageant, notably highlighted by Dr. Peggy Ravusiro, Miss Fiji 2025, who shared her unsettling experiences with pageant organizers.
In response to inquiries from The Fiji Times about the unintended consequences of gender equality initiatives that might contribute to new forms of marginalization for women, Morrell argued that events like beauty pageants, including the well-known Hibiscus Festival, have become so embedded in cultural traditions that their implications often go unchallenged.
“Beauty pageants and similar events act as platforms for the exploitation of women, yet society frequently overlooks this exploitation due to their normalization,” Morrell pointed out. He stressed that women involved in these events face intense public scrutiny and judgment based on their appearance, performance, and personal expression, primarily driven by commercial interests.
By drawing parallels between contemporary pageants and historical practices that have objectified women, Morrell suggested that, despite the façade of empowerment, society is inadvertently sustaining harmful behaviors. “While we tell ourselves this is about women’s empowerment and showcasing talent, a deeper evaluation reveals exploitation of our young girls,” he stated.
Morrell emphasized the importance of shifting the narrative to encourage young women to value their individuality and self-worth independent of societal pressures or restrictive standards. He remarked, “We need to affirm that they are beautiful just as they are, irrespective of height or weight.”
He also noted an unsettling silence from women’s organizations regarding the critique of pageants, questioning the lack of backlash from these groups. Morrell’s insights provide a critical lens on the ongoing dialogue concerning gender representation and the societal acceptance of beauty standards that can lead to further marginalization.
The discourse surrounding beauty pageants is shifting, with advocates calling for a reassessment of societal norms and urging a more inclusive understanding of empowerment that honors individuality over objectification. The ongoing discussions present an opportunity to foster a cultural environment where self-acceptance and personal worth are celebrated, potentially leading to a more positive and affirming future for women.