I assume they are all married since their faces are uncovered.
Saudi, parts of Yemen, a lot of Iran, and a lot of Afghanistan, yea. Things aren't exactly great for women. Face coverings or burkas aren't common in plenty of other Arab/Muslim countries. From what I understand, they're exceedingly rare in UAE, Bahrain, Pakistan, and most of the smaller states. You'd honestly be surprised how liberal quite a few Arab states are if you've never been around the region. Except for during the civil war and the 2006 War, Beirut puts Vegas to shame in terms of uh 'having a good time'.
I dare ya to ask a Maronite girl why she's not wearing a burka. Just please have a camera handy!
Obviously I have to concede the point you are making. Women do enter these things voluntarily-but that doesn't mean they're entering into a contest that is based on and promotes respect for women's rights.
I don't think the contests have to be forced to be oppressive or sexist. But that doesn't mean every contest is sexist either.
The question is choice. It wouldn't be respectful of women's rights to forcibly shut down such pagents, 'for their own good' either.
Personally, I don't see the problem. Every time I've ever gone to the clubs, I've seen the same type of competitions. Women are naturally competitive when it comes to their peers. At least that's what I've noticed. That's the only logical reason I can think of as to why my ex's could take a couple hours dressing up to hit up the clubs. You don't want to know how many times I've heard complaining of how hard it is to conceal a Baby Eagle .40 cal or a USP compact .45 in a dress.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ruifipieggio/sets/72157601054484120/ - Slightly better photos
Hrm. Personally, toss up between Miss Syria, Egypt, and Lebanon. I'd have to say Miss Lebanon (green dress) because she looks like nothing but trouble. And that's the only kind of girl I personally find attractive.
