Turkey manages to create controversy about the new Miss Turkey

The Miss Turkey 2024 competition has sparked significant controversy and debate on social media and in local media, primarily centered around the winner, İdil Bilgen. Here are the key points of the controversy:

Criticism of Appearance

Many social media users have criticized İdil Bilgen’s appearance, claiming she doesn’t fit the traditional beauty standards expected of a beauty pageant winner[1][4]. Some have even made unflattering comparisons, likening her to the character “Şabaniye” from Kemal Sunal’s movies[1].

Accusations of Nepotism

There are allegations of favoritism or “torpil” (nepotism) due to İdil Bilgen’s family background:

• She is the daughter of Levent Bilgen, who has been serving as the Turkish Ambassador to Kiev since October 2023[1].
• This connection has led some to question whether her win was influenced by her father’s position[1].

Debate on Selection Criteria

The controversy has sparked a debate about what criteria should be used to select a beauty pageant winner:

• Some argue that the competition should focus solely on physical beauty[1].
• Others, like former Miss Turkey Neşe Erberk, defend Bilgen, saying she has “beauty with a purpose”[1].

Social Media Divide

The controversy has effectively split social media into two camps:

• Those criticizing Bilgen’s win and questioning her suitability as Miss Turkey[6].
• Those supporting her and praising her accomplishments, such as graduating from Koç University Medical School[1].

Celebrity Involvement

Several Turkish celebrities have weighed in on the controversy:

• Some, like Nebahat Çehre and Çağla Şikel, have shown support for Bilgen[2].
• Others, like singer Demet Akalın, have criticized the selection process, suggesting there should have been a public vote[2].

Bilgen’s Response

İdil Bilgen has responded to the criticism, expressing anger at the negative comments and defending her win[5]. She has also highlighted her academic achievements and future aspirations in oncology[1].

The controversy surrounding Miss Turkey 2024 reflects broader societal debates about beauty standards, meritocracy, and the role of beauty pageants in modern society.

Citations:
1. Anlatılanın Ötesi – Miss Turkey 2024 Birincisi İdil Bilgen Sosyal Medyayı İkiye Böldü
2. Onedio – Miss Turkey 2024 Birincisi İdil Bilgen’e Eleştiri Yağarken Demet Akalın’dan Yorum
3. Al Bawaba – İdil Bilgen Wins Miss Turkey 2024 Amid Controversy
4. Railly News – İdil Bilgen Came First in Miss Turkey 2024
5. Haberler – Turkey’s Beauty İdil Bilgen Responds to Criticisms
6. Onedio – Miss Turkey 2024 Birincisi İdil Bilgen Sosyal Medyayı İkiye Böldü