Miss Türkiye 2024 Idil Bilgen bullied for not conforming to beauty standards

Idil Bilgen’s recent win as Miss Türkiye 2024 sparked widespread controversy across social media and among public figures.

While many celebrated her intelligence and medical background, others accused her of gaining the title through favoritism.

Bilgen, a doctor who has recently started her new position in Bingol, Türkiye, faces criticism from those who question both her appearance and the legitimacy of her victory. This debate has raised discussions about beauty standards and fairness in the Miss Türkiye competition.

Who is Idil Bilgen? the doctor crowned Miss Türkiye 2024

Idil Bilgen, 24, is a graduate of Koc University’s Faculty of Medicine and currently works as a doctor at a health center in Yayladere, Bingol. She earned the Miss Türkiye 2024 crown in a competition featuring 20 finalists, stating, “Before being named Miss Türkiye, I was already a doctor. I’m honored to carry both titles at the same time.”

• Bilgen’s interest in oncology stems from personal tragedy. Her mother passed away from breast cancer in 2018, which inspired her to pursue a medical career and specialize in cancer research.
• She firmly believes that beauty is more than just physical appearance. “Miss World selects well-rounded, educated women. Beauty is not just about physical appearance,” she said.

Allegations of favoritism surround Miss Türkiye 2024 winner

Bilgen’s victory quickly became a hot topic on social media. Users questioned her looks and implied that her father’s position as Türkiye’s ambassador to Ukraine influenced the results.

Comments such as, “Did she win through connections?” and “We didn’t say you couldn’t be a doctor, we just said you aren’t beautiful,” circulated widely.

In response to the criticism, Bilgen said, “I don’t care about these comments. I am a modern Turkish woman, and I will represent Türkiye with pride.”

Public figures react to Idil Bilgen’s Miss Türkiye win

Public figures also weighed in on the controversy. While some backed Bilgen, others were critical:

• Aleyna Tilki, pop singer, defended Bilgen, stating, “Your minds and feelings aren’t free enough to understand beauty.”
• Fazil Say, renowned pianist, added, “It’s unfair to reduce someone to their looks, especially when they’ve achieved so much. We need to view things from a more positive perspective.”
• Bulent Ersoy, veteran singer, criticized Bilgen’s appearance, calling her features “masculine” and comparing her to a comedic character from Turkish cinema.

Debating beauty standards in Miss Türkiye 2024

Bilgen’s win has reignited conversations about evolving beauty standards in Türkiye. While some see her as a symbol of modern beauty, others remain attached to traditional views. Many critics speculated whether the competition was fair, or if Bilgen’s family connections influenced the outcome.

In her defense, Bilgen reiterated, “Miss World crowns educated women. This isn’t about just being physically attractive.”

What’s next for Idil Bilgen

Bilgen will represent Türkiye at the upcoming Miss World pageant. While preparing for the global stage, she remains dedicated to her medical career, particularly her focus on cancer research.

• “I will represent Türkiye with grace and intelligence,” Bilgen said, determined to prove her worth beyond the beauty pageant stage.