Miss Universe 2019 just announced their top five candidates: Mexico, Thailand, Colombia, Puerto Rico, and South Africa.
Here are the candidates’ full answers to the Q&A portion:
Mexico
Q: Is protest a positive way to create change?
A: I believe in the cause, I believe in creating change, and I do believe in raising our voices. We need to be heard, and some of these protests are really powerful and they can create a positive impact. But I don’t believe in violence, because violence is always going to create violence. I really believe is that what we should do is come together, raise our voices, and make an impact in the best possible way ever, through this kind of platforms like Miss Universe, Ted Talks. That’s why I’m here, and that’s why I believe that that’s what we should do.
Thailand
Q: What is more important to you: privacy or security?
A: I believe that every country has its own government policy to keep us safe, but I believe that it shouldn’t cross the line of going into our privacy, because we have the right to privacy. But security is really important, but the government should look for a middle ground.
Colombia
Q: What is the most important women’s health issue?
A: I think the most important thing is that women should be able to choose their own bodies. We have to have the option to have quality care, so any decision we make about our health, about our reproduction, won’t ever put us at risk–especially our lives.
Puerto Rico
Q: Should social media platforms respect free speech or regulate people’s post?
A: Social media can be a positive impact on our lives, we can share information and knowledge. However, it can be used in the wrong and steer negativity and harm negatively. So social media should identify the people who are steering negativity to make sure that they are not abusing the system, such as social media.
South Africa
Q: Are our leaders of today doing enough for climate change?
A: I think our leaders could do a little bit more, but we as individuals could also play a part. We have children protesting for climate, and as adults, we should join as well. We should have corporations join as well, and the government should take this seriously. Since sixth grade, I’ve been learning that the climate is deteriorating, and our planet is dying, so it is up to us to keep our planet safe.
For the latest in culture, fashion, beauty, and celebrities, subscribe to our weekly newsletter here
Follow Preen on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Viber