Miss Universe Pakistan contestant Roma Riaz has become the centre of widespread online discussion after facing racist, colourist and body-shaming comments following her appointment for the 2025 pageant. Critical posts targeting her appearance circulated rapidly after official Miss Universe photographs were released, prompting renewed scrutiny of beauty expectations within Pakistan and across South Asia.
The reaction has drawn attention to long-standing cultural attitudes surrounding skin tone and body image, which continue to influence parts of the region's entertainment and pageant industries. Much of the criticism focused on Riaz's darker complexion and fuller figure, themes that campaigners and commentators say reflect entrenched colourism rather than objective assessment. She especially gained global attention during the swimsuit competition where she wore a full body suit.
