Debate Erupts Over Skin Tone of Miss Universe Pakistan 2025
Jakarta – The selection of Roma Riaz as Miss Universe Pakistan 2025 has ignited online discussion, centering on perceptions of beauty standards within the country. The 27-year-old garnered attention after appearing at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in thailand, sparking debate among social media users regarding representation of Pakistani women. Many commenters expressed the belief that Riaz dose not embody the traditionally perceived image of Pakistani beauty.
Riaz, who is of Pakistani punjabi Christian heritage, was raised in England. Her platform focuses on challenging prevalent beauty standards and skin tone biases in Pakistan, advocating for broader representation of beauty ideals.
While Pakistan boasts a diverse population with a range of skin tones, many local residents possess fair to light complexions, alongside lighter hair and eye colors, stemming from ancestry linked to Central Asian, Persian, and Turkish populations.
The online reaction to Riaz’s win included critical comments,with some users stating she was “too dark,” needed to “lose weight,” or simply “doesn’t represent the beauty of Pakistani women.” These remarks highlight the enduring preference for lighter skin tones in South Asia.
Riaz addressed the negative feedback, stating the pageant represents “the answer to everyone who has ever questioned my identity.” As quoted by Khaleej Times, she emphasized, “Beauty is not defined by just one shape or skin color.Pakistan has incredible diversity, and I want all women, from whatever background to feel they deserve to look and be appreciated.”
Riaz expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to represent her diverse background on an international stage. “It feels amazing to be able to stand on stage with my skin color and body shape,” she said.”I want to remind everyone: should the next Miss Universe be a top model, or someone who is able to inspire and empower other women?”
Alongside the criticism, Riaz has also received significant support.Many online users praised her courage in challenging conventional beauty standards. One commenter noted, “Why is it tough for people to accept that light-skinned people exist in England and dark-skinned people also exist in Pakistan? Both are equally beautiful.” Another added, “Being white doesn’t mean you are prettier. People focus too much on their skin color, even tho beauty is broad and there are no standard standards.”
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