New 2024 rule?

 Habla español?

By Earl D.C. Bracamonte

While English has been the lingua franca of the Miss Universe pageant since its inception in 1952, that preference is put to the test with a new announcement from JKN founder and Miss Universe Organization CEO Anne Jakrajutatip. Starting with the 2024 pageant, national delegates are encouraged to speak Spanish in preparation for the 73rd edition.

"We are delighted that partners from Latin America are accepting to host the 73rd Miss Universe pageant. The Latin host country for the next pageant will be announced at the 72nd Miss Universe finals in San Salvador, El Salvador on November 19th.

"Miss Universe 2024 may need to prepare to speak some Spanish," informed the JKN chief executive.

While English has been the medium of choice for the longest time, this announcement evens the playing field for non-English speaking countries who will be learning the Spanish language with the rest of countries and territories outside of the Americas, and Spain.

Will countries who have been under the Spanish rule, like the Philippines, find this an easy challenge? We will find out next year. In the meantime, let's join the international pageant community in encouraging all the national delegates to the forthcoming El Salvador finale. Stay tuned!