Miss Universe Clash in Thailand Sparks Global Debate on Women’s Respect — Nigerians Reacts
A confrontation between a senior Miss Universe Thailand official and Miss Universe Mexico, Fatima Bosch, has triggered global outrage. It has sparked a debate on women’s dignity and representation, a topic that strongly resonates in Nigeria’s pageant and entertainment space.
Incident raises global concerns over dignity, respect and treatment of women on the Miss Universe.
The incident occurred in Bangkok ahead of the 74th Miss Universe competition, scheduled for later this month. Delegates from around the world had gathered for pre-event activities. During this time, Nawat Itsaragrisil, a Thai businessman and national director of Miss Universe Thailand, publicly reprimanded Bosch during a briefing. The moment, streamed live on Facebook, quickly went viral.
Itsaragrisil criticised Bosch for not posting enough promotional content about Thailand and the pageant. He also berated Mexico’s national pageant director. “If you follow the order from your national director, you are foolish,” he told her.
When Bosch attempted to respond, he shut her down, insisting she had no permission to speak. Bosch replied, “I have a voice,” and accused him of disrespecting her as a woman. The heated exchange led to a walkout by fellow contestants — a rare show of solidarity in the beauty pageant world.
Bosch later said she felt humiliated and emphasised that women on the Miss Universe platform must not be silenced. “No one can shut our voice,” she said.
Her stand has earned support globally, including among Nigerian pageant enthusiasts. They view the Miss Universe stage as a platform for women’s empowerment — not intimidation.
Miss Universe Organization (MUO) President Raúl Rocha condemned Itsaragrisil’s behaviour. He stated that Itsaragrisil “humiliated” Bosch and violated the values of respect and dignity expected of pageant hosts. He stressed that hosts must treat contestants with kindness, support, and respect.
Miss Universe Mexico’s organisation also issued a powerful statement celebrating Bosch’s courage, saying she spoke “for women of the world.”
Following the backlash, Itsaragrisil apologised. He claimed he was misunderstood and misquoted and said he had addressed the contestants to clarify the incident.
The MUO reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safety, respect, and integrity for all contestants. Preparations continue for the grand finale.
