top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Mini-miss contests ‘should be banned’

A report says children’s beauty contests are a factor in the inappropriate sexualisation of the very young

BEAUTY contests for under 16s should be banned says a report commissioned by the Solidarity Ministry.

Senator Chantal Jouanno singled out “Mini Miss” contests, aimed at 8-12-year-olds, as one of the factors in a trend of inappropriate “hypersexualisation” of children.

Under-16s should also not be allowed to be the face of certain clothing brands, said Ms Jouanno.

There should also be a charter to which companies would sign up, to avoid manufacture and sale of inappropriate products to early ages (ie. suggestive clothing), the report says. Something similar exists in the UK, according to Ms Jouanno – for example high street clothing brands reportedly pledge not to sell push-up bras for little girls.

There could also be a “name and shame” website for parents to complain about certain firms breaking the guidelines, with the names published if action is not taken.

Better education on the topic via the caisses d’allocations familiales and schools should also be organised. Dress codes defining standards of “respectable” dress could be worked out and standardised.

“Hypersexualisation” of children relates to expressions, postures or dress codes deemed to be unsuitable for their age. Debate was notably sparked off on the topic in 2010 when French Vogue printed photos of a 10-year-old girl in glamorous outfits and heavy make-up and in suggestive poses such as reclining on a tiger skin.

The report says the problem starts very young, with marketing to boys and girls becoming ever more gender stereotyped.

Organiser of children’s beauty contests Michel le Parmentier said banning them would “smash the dream of little girls who just want to be princesses”.
Photo: Image Source IS2 - Fotolia.com

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France