BANGKOK – The Miss Universe 2025 pageant has been hit by controversy after several contestants walked out of an event in Thailand, protesting against what they called insulting and disrespectful behavior towards Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch.
According to international media reports, the incident occurred during an official pre-event ceremony when Miss Universe Thailand’s Executive Director, Nawatt Itsaragrisil, allegedly behaved inappropriately towards Miss Mexico. During a public interaction, Itsaragrisil reportedly questioned Bosch about her absence from a promotional photoshoot and then called her “dumb” in English, causing visible discomfort among participants.
The remarks triggered outrage, and a video clip of the incident soon went viral on social media. Following the backlash, several contestants described the exchange as humiliating and unprofessional, walking out of the event in solidarity with Miss Mexico.
Contestant Victoria Thielvig condemned the incident, saying that such behavior violated the dignity and spirit of international competitions.
“The way Miss Mexico was treated goes against the values of respect and fairness that global contests like Miss Universe are meant to uphold,” she stated.
In a post on social media, Fatima Bosch said she would not remain silent about the incident.
“I will not stay quiet like cattle. I will continue to raise my voice for the dignity and respect of women. No one can silence us,” she wrote.
The incident prompted widespread criticism online, with thousands of users expressing support for Miss Mexico. Many demanded that the Miss Universe Thailand executive be removed from his position, calling the behavior unacceptable and unprofessional.
In response to the growing backlash, the Miss Universe Organization issued an official statement emphasizing its commitment to respectful conduct and equal treatment for all participants.
“We believe in treating every contestant with dignity and professionalism. Any form of inappropriate behavior is unacceptable,” the statement read.
The organization confirmed that an internal inquiry had been launched and assured that measures would be taken to prevent such incidents in the future, aiming to maintain the integrity and values of the Miss Universe brand.
