The Miss Universe 2025 competition has been rocked by controversy after several contestants staged a walkout in protest against comments made by pageant organizer Nawat Itsaragrisil, who allegedly berated Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, during a pre-pageant ceremony in Bangkok on Tuesday.
Bosch said the incident occurred when Itsaragrisil, the long-time president of the Miss Grand International organization and a prominent figure in Thailand’s beauty industry, publicly criticized her demeanor and appearance in front of other contestants and guests.
“He was not respectful,” Bosch told reporters afterward. “I was embarrassed and disappointed. No one deserves to be spoken to like that, especially in a setting meant to celebrate women.”
Witnesses say Itsaragrisil’s remarks - described as “harsh and condescending” — led to an immediate backlash among contestants. Within minutes, multiple representatives, including those from Colombia, Argentina, and the Philippines, left the hall in solidarity with Bosch.
A Walkout That Shook the Pageant
Videos shared on social media show contestants quietly walking out of the ballroom while the host attempted to continue the event. The footage, now viral, has drawn millions of views across TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), sparking global discussions about respect, professionalism, and the treatment of women in international pageants.
The Miss Universe organization has not issued an official statement but insiders confirmed to BBC News that an internal review is underway to assess whether Itsaragrisil’s conduct violated pageant protocols.
Local media in Thailand reported that the incident happened during a rehearsal dinner where finalists were introduced to sponsors and national directors. Bosch was reportedly interrupted mid-speech when Itsaragrisil criticized her “attitude” and told her to “be more grateful.”
Growing Calls for Accountability
The backlash has been swift. Fans across Latin America and Asia — where pageantry enjoys massive followings — have flooded social media with messages supporting Bosch and demanding public accountability from organizers.
Former contestants, including several ex-Miss Universe titleholders, have also voiced concern. Andrea Meza, Miss Universe 2020 and a fellow Mexican, posted:
“No woman should be humiliated in public. Pageants are about empowerment, not control.”
