Incident in Bangkok
A widely shared video from pre-pageant events in Bangkok shows Fatima Bosch, Miss Universe Mexico, being publicly reprimanded by Nawat Itsaragrisil, president of Miss Grand International (MGI). The 25-year-old contestant was accused of not posting enough promotional content about Thailand and — according to the recording — was called names and told to be silent before security was summoned to escort her out.
What happened
The exchange took place during a live-streamed meeting attended by dozens of contestants ahead of the 74th Miss Universe competition. Nawat suggested Bosch had been instructed by her national director to undermine promotional activities and reportedly called her a “dumbhead” if she followed such orders. The Thai director later disputed the exact wording, saying he had accused her of causing “damage.”
When Bosch attempted to respond, Nawat interrupted her: "I didn't give you (the) opportunity to talk," and then called security to remove her. Other contestants immediately rose and walked out in solidarity. Nawat threatened to eliminate any contestant who left their seats.
Responses and consequences
Although Nawat later issued an on-camera apology saying he meant no harm, the incident prompted swift international condemnation. Raúl Rocha, president of the Miss Universe Organization, criticized Nawat’s conduct and said he would restrict the Thai director’s participation in Miss Universe events, describing the use of security to intimidate a contestant as humiliating and unacceptable.
What Fatima Bosch said
"I think that's not fair because I'm here, and I do everything OK. I don't mess with anyone. I just try to be kind. I'm trying to give my best."
In a TikTok post Bosch said she had been told to "shut up" and insisted the episode needed to be seen because the pageant is "a platform for our voice, and no one can shut our voice."
Political and public reactions
News of the confrontation reached Mexico’s presidency. President Claudia Sheinbaum called Bosch’s response an example of how women should assert themselves and invoked a common sexist Mexican phrase used to silence women — "Calladita te ves más bonita" ("You look more beautiful when you're silent") — offering a counter-message: "Women look more beautiful when we raise our voices and participate."
Voices from activists and former titleholders
Catalina Ruiz Navarro, a Colombian feminist activist and journalist based in Mexico City, criticized the pageant system itself for placing contestants in a patriarchal framework that polices bodies and enforces narrow beauty ideals. She praised Bosch’s courage and the solidarity shown by other contestants for walking out.
Former Miss Universe titleholders and contestants also spoke out. Sheynnis Palacios (Miss Universe 2023) said on social media that "a crown should not cost a woman her dignity." Alicia Machado, Miss Universe 1996, recalled facing similar mistreatment and urged pageants to promote gender rights and equality rather than tolerate unethical behavior.
Context and next steps
The Miss Universe Organization has limited Nawat’s role in the 74th Miss Universe events while the controversy unfolds. The pageant activities involve contestants from around 130 countries and will culminate with the final show on November 21 in Bangkok.
Takeaway
The episode has sparked a broader conversation about the power dynamics within international beauty pageants, the protection and dignity of contestants, and the role of public platforms in defending women who speak out. Many observers say the incident highlights the need for pageants to be more respectful, inclusive and accountable to the women they showcase.
