Beauty pageants, make-up, sewing contests ... International Women’s Day, Putin-style!
Across the world, friends raised a glass to female empowerment as thousands marched in protest at how far feminism has to go.
But it seems russia had a different idea for its own International Women’s Day celebrations yesterday – marking the occasion with an inspiring series of beauty, sewing and cooking contests.
Women in Vladimir Putin’s armed forces and police got the chance to show what they’re made of as they competed in pageants to win a tiara.
Members of the missile forces, in charge of russia’s nuclear arsenal, were asked to show off their shooting skills –
‘Motto is to serve stylishly’
and also make at least ‘three low calorie meals with a basic set of products’.
There was something for everyone, as contestants could also compete in a ‘make-up under camouflage’ competition, or – for the female paratroopers – there was a ‘ couturier contest’ to demonstrate sewing skills.
The police beauty pageant saw contestants parade in uniforms and evening gowns – but was open only to officers aged under 30.
And to boost morale one parade, organised by the russian Black sea fleet, labelled female naval personnel ‘military persons of the weaker sex’.
Activist Anastasia Krasilnikova said: ‘The winner will be presented with – can you imagine? – a diadem. I find it all incredibly ridiculous and absurd.
‘Even women who are paid to defend our country and who professionally use weapons must “be beautiful” and prove to someone they can sew and make lowcarb meals. Male service personnel do not have this kind of contest.’
she added: ‘We live in a fascinating society where women can be in the Army, yet they have to continue delighting someone’s eye and stomach.’
But participants defended the pageants and their timing. Anna
Khramtsova, 31, who last year beat 1,000 entrants to win a National Guard contest, admitted she often endured jokes about ‘blondes in service’ – but says her motto is to ‘serve stylishly’.
Miss Khramtsova said she was ‘proud to continue the dynasty’ and matches her nail varnish with the colour of her gun for events. A police spokesman said: ‘The girls were awarded points for well-aimed hits from a Makarov pistol, strength exercises, methods of detention, knowledge of the law, and first-aid. All are part of the officer’s profession.’