LONDON — Organisers of the Miss United Kingdom beauty pageant announced Thursday that the competition will introduce a new judged category next year: Best Burka. The segment, described in a brief press release as “a natural evolution of the pageant’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural awareness,” will require all contestants to appear on stage in a full black burka while still wearing their traditional sashes, tiaras and carrying floral bouquets. “We believe this addition reflects the diverse fabric of modern Britain,” said pageant director Helen Ashworth in a statement that contained no further explanation. “Contestants will be assessed on poise, posture, and the elegance with which the garment is worn.” The announcement follows growing calls from various advocacy groups for the pageant to move beyond conventional evening-gown and swimsuit rounds. Critics of the existing format have long argued that it privileges certain aesthetics over others. Supporters of the change, though few have spoken publicly, reportedly welcome the opportunity for contestants to demonstrate “modesty and mystery” in equal measure. Preliminary rules indicate that the burka must be plain black, cover the face with a mesh screen over the eyes, and leave the contestant’s number tag and sash clearly visible. Jewellery and crowns will remain mandatory. Scoring criteria have not yet been released, though sources close to the organising committee suggested marks may be awarded for “how little of the person can still be discerned.” Former contestants contacted for comment largely declined to speak on the record. One, who asked not to be named, observed only that “the bouquets will still be the same.” The first Best Burka segment is scheduled to take place during the 2027 final at a yet-to-be-confirmed venue. Ticket prices are expected to remain unchanged. The post Miss United Kingdom Adds ‘Best Burka’ Segment to 2027 Pageant appeared first on Genesius Times.