The iconic Miss Netherlands beauty pageant has officially come to an end as its organizers announced plans to replace it with a new initiative aimed at inspiring young people.
The decision comes just over a year after the competition made history by crowning its first transgender winner, Rikkie Kollé. In a statement on the competition’s website, the organizers introduced their new platform, Niet Meer Van Deze Tijd (No Longer of This Time), which will focus on issues such as mental health, social media, diversity, and self-expression.
“After years of history full of glamor, talent, and inspiration, Miss Netherlands is saying goodbye to the name that found itself in many people’s hearts. But this is not the end; it is a new beginning. The world is changing, and we are changing with it,” the statement read.
The new platform, according to the organizers, will move away from traditional beauty pageant elements like crowns and gowns, instead emphasizing stories and solidarity. “Here we inspire young people to be themselves in a world that is constantly changing,” the announcement continued.
Addressing Criticisms and Evolving Values
Monica van Ee, director of Miss Netherlands and founder of the new platform, cited rising insecurities among women due to unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by social media. She also addressed criticisms of the pageant’s casting process, which faced backlash for perceived racial biases, leading to annual negativity.
“Now we can reach everyone and provide the right solidarity,” Van Ee said. “We believe in our platform, and perhaps a sash and crown are outdated. But women who support each other and help each other — that has always been important to us!”
Rikkie Kollé, who went on to compete in Miss Universe 2023 as one of two transgender contestants, used her platform to advocate for inclusivity in the pageant world. In a video posted on Instagram, she reflected on her journey: “As a little boy, I conquered all the things that came through my path — and look at me now, standing here as a strong, empowering, and confident trans woman.”
Pageant Industry Shifts
The decision to end Miss Netherlands reflects broader changes in the beauty pageant industry as traditional values clash with evolving societal norms. This year’s Miss Universe, held in Mexico City, allowed women aged over 28 to compete for the first time and lifted bans on pregnant women, mothers, and previously married contestants.
Despite these changes, some pageants continue to uphold outdated rules. In September, a New York woman filed a complaint against the exclusion of mothers from certain competitions, calling for greater inclusivity.
As the beauty pageant world continues to modernize, the Miss Netherlands transition to No Longer of This Time marks a significant step in redefining empowerment and representation for a new generation.
