Several Miss Universe contestants walked out of a pre-pageant event in Bangkok, Thailand, following a tense confrontation in which Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly reprimanded Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch.
According to reports, Mr. Nawat scolded Bosch in front of dozens of contestants for failing to post promotional content. When she objected, he called security and threatened to disqualify anyone supporting her. Bosch left the room, and others joined her in solidarity. Video of the incident, which was livestreamed, circulated widely online.
The Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) condemned Mr. Nawat’s behaviour as “malicious”, prompting him to issue an apology. MUO President Raul Rocha said the Thai official had humiliated, insulted, and intimidated a defenceless woman, calling security to reinforce his threats. The MUO has sent an international delegation to take over running the competition and announced that Mr. Nawat’s role will be limited or entirely removed, with potential legal action pending.
Footage from the event shows contestants standing in protest, with some confronting Mr. Nawat verbally before leaving. Among those who walked out was reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark, who said: “This is about women's rights. This is not how things should be handled… That’s why I’m taking my coat and walking out.”
Bosch later addressed the press, saying: “I just want to let my country know, I’m not afraid to make my voice heard… We’re in the 21st century. I’m not a doll to be made up, styled, and have my clothes changed. I came here to be a voice for all the women and girls who fight for causes.”
The controversy sparked widespread criticism on social media, with fans praising Bosch and condemning Mr. Nawat. In a video statement, the Thai official said: “If anyone feels bad, uncomfortable, or affected, I apologise to everyone. I especially apologised to the girls who were present, around 75 of them.”
Despite the incident, the Miss Universe pageant continued with its scheduled events, including a welcome ceremony in Bangkok on Wednesday. The new Miss Universe will be crowned on 21 November.