They were going to put 4-year-old children into a beauty contest! The Ministry has stepped in.

They were going to put 4-year-old children into a beauty contest! The Ministry has stepped in.

17.10.2026 11:00

Following claims that a beauty pageant called ‘Little Miss and Little Mister United World’ would be held in Antalya with the participation of children aged 4-13, the Ministry of Family and Social Services filed a criminal complaint.

The Ministry of Family and Social Services has filed a criminal complaint regarding the “Little Miss and Little Mister United World” beauty contest announced to be held in Antalya with the participation of children aged 4–13.

The statement included the following:

"Following news in some media outlets and digital platforms that a beauty contest called “Little Miss and Little Mister United World” would be held in Antalya with the participation of children aged 4–13, it has become necessary to make the following statement.

As the Ministry of Family and Social Services, we are filing a criminal complaint about the organization in question.

"EVALUATING CHILDREN BY BEAUTY CRITERIA IS UNACCEPTABLE"

It is unacceptable for children to compete based on their physical appearance, to be subjected to aesthetic standards inappropriate for their age and development, and to be evaluated by adults’ beauty criteria. Such organizations that turn children into commercial elements are incompatible with children's rights and the principle of the best interests of the child.

"AN INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN INITIATED"

Protecting our children's physical, mental and psychosocial development is our fundamental responsibility. No commercial activity, promotion or organization is more valuable than our children's rights and well-being.

Necessary investigations have been initiated by the relevant units of our Ministry. In order to protect our children, all necessary legal and administrative steps will be taken decisively within the framework of our duties and powers, and the process will be followed meticulously. It is respectfully announced to the public."

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