Miss Pakistan Makes Strong Statement Donning Burkini in Leading Beauty Pageant

This year’s Miss Universe pageant saw the participation of the first-ever Miss Pakistan who made a poignant statement by opting to wear a burkini in the swimsuit competition. 

Erica Robin won the Miss Universe Pakistan competition in September, despite facing major scrutiny and controversy. 

Her participation even prompted the caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul-Haq Kakar to order an investigation last month. 

Despite the government distancing itself from endorsing the competition and Erica’s representation, the 24-year-old model vowed to represent herself as an ambassador of peace and goodwill at the event. 

Speaking about the mixed reactions over her participation, she said: “I'm most proud of standing up for what I believe in my life. Recently, right after I was announced as the new titleholder for Miss Universe Pakistan, I received some backlash from different sectors of the community, but I would like to stand up for what I believe in." 

Robin, who represents 1% of Pakistan’s Christian population, stated she was willing to face the challenges while showcasing to the world the culture of Pakistan. And this is why she decided early on to wear a burkini in the pageant, in respect of her nation’s traditions. 

A burkini is a modest style swimsuit for women that covers the whole body except the face, the hands, and the feet while being light enough for swimming. 

While some detractors have spoken out against the contest's swimsuit round, it is not mandatory for Miss Universe contestants to wear bikinis on stage. 

Robin made a fashion statement in a baby-pink burkini as the crowd roared with applause, as other contestants walked the stage in metallic swimsuits. Miss Pakistan wasn't the only woman in the top 20 to make history at this year's Miss Universe competition. 

Miss Nepal, Jane Dipika Garrett, was the first body-inclusive contestant to compete at Miss Universe. Whereas Miss Colombia, Camila Avella, was the first married woman and mother to place in the competition since Miss Universe changed its rules in August 2022; and Miss Portugal, Marina Machete, was the first transgender contestant to place in the top 20. 

Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua was crowned the 2023 Miss Universe. 

The pageant is one of the longest-running and most-watched beauty pageants, now in its 72nd year.

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