The Miss Belgium organization is facing renewed scrutiny following allegations of exploitative practices and a toxic work environment, even as organizer Darline Devos vehemently denies claims of misconduct. The controversy, which has been simmering for months, reached a new pitch after the Miss Belgium 2026 final on , with Devos addressing the accusations head-on.
The current wave of criticism began last summer when former Miss Belgium Kenza Ameloot and Cilou Annys publicly detailed their negative experiences. Ameloot described a year marked by intense work pressure, minimal financial compensation, and a contract that severely restricted her personal life. She also highlighted the financial burden placed on candidates themselves. Annys echoed these sentiments, confirming similar hardships during her reign in .
More recently, Celine Van Ouytsel, Miss Belgium from a previous year, added her voice to the chorus of dissent. Speaking on VRT 1’s “Het Huis” earlier this week, Van Ouytsel characterized her year as Miss Belgium as entirely consumed by the organization, all for a meager monthly salary of 1,000 euros – which she described as a “hongerloontje” (a starvation wage). While acknowledging she doesn’t regret her participation, she stated she wouldn’t recommend the experience to others.
Devos responded to these criticisms in a recent appearance on “De Afspraak,” asserting her belief that she provides adequate care for the contestants. However, specific allegations paint a more troubling picture. Ameloot recounted an incident where a revealing photograph of her, taken backstage during a fashion show, was posted on social media. She claims she turned to the organization for assistance, only to be met with the dismissive response: “Slechte publiciteit is ook publiciteit” (Bad publicity is also publicity).
The accusations extend beyond inadequate support and financial strain. Reports suggest candidates face significant financial pressure to succeed, with some allegedly investing substantial sums – as much as 35,000 euros, according to one account – in an attempt to improve their ranking. Contestants are reportedly subjected to restrictive contracts that impose hefty fines – up to 12,500 euros – for making negative comments about the organization, even after their year of service has ended. The atmosphere, according to former contestants, is one of fear and intimidation.
The allegations also touch upon privacy concerns. Ameloot questioned why she was required to provide passwords to her personal social media accounts. The situation has prompted calls for Devos’s removal from the organization, with some characterizing the Miss Belgium competition as a “course à l’argent” (a race for money) that exploits its participants.
Despite the mounting criticism, Devos continues to defend her leadership. Speaking to Belga news agency after the final, she denied any allegations of sexual misconduct involving candidates, though the specific nature of those allegations remains unclear. Her broader defense centers on the idea that she adequately supports the young women who participate in the competition.
The controversy surrounding Miss Belgium reflects a wider conversation about the pressures and potential exploitation within the beauty pageant industry. While pageants often promote ideals of empowerment and opportunity, the experiences shared by these former Miss Belgium contestants raise serious questions about the realities behind the crown. The situation highlights the power dynamics at play and the potential for organizations to prioritize profit over the well-being of the individuals involved.
The future of the Miss Belgium organization remains uncertain. Whether Devos will address the specific allegations with greater detail, or whether the pressure from former contestants and public scrutiny will lead to significant changes within the organization, remains to be seen. The case serves as a cautionary tale about the need for greater transparency and accountability in the world of beauty pageants, and the importance of protecting the rights and well-being of the young women who participate in them.
