Miss Universe Pageant in Thailand Faces Controversy and Walkouts

The Miss Universe pageant in Thailand has experienced significant turmoil, highlighted by allegations of disrespect towards contestants and a dramatic walkout by a leading delegate. Over 120 women from around the world are competing for the crown in what is regarded as one of the premier global beauty contests. However, the lead-up to the event has been overshadowed by off-stage conflicts, drawing attention from notable figures, including Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico.

The controversy escalated on Tuesday when Fatima Bosch, the Mexican contestant, staged a walkout during a meeting after being publicly insulted by pageant host Nawat Itsaragrisil. During a livestreamed event, Nawat reportedly referred to Bosch as a “dumbhead” during a discussion about her social media promotional responsibilities. Although he later denied using that specific term, the incident culminated in Bosch leaving the meeting, accompanied by Miss Iraq, who wore an elaborate bejeweled gown.

Bosch addressed the media outside, stating, “What your director did is not respectful: he called me dumb. The world needs to see this because we are empowered women and this is a platform for our voice.” Her walkout drew immediate support from other contestants, although Nawat attempted to regain control by warning participants wishing to remain in the contest to “sit down.”

The incident prompted a strong response from President Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch’s actions. She stated, “Bosch is an example of how we women should speak out in the face of aggression,” emphasizing the importance of women’s voices in public forums. Following this, Mexico’s embassy in Thailand confirmed it is maintaining communication with Bosch and her family.

Nawat faced backlash from the Miss Universe Organization, with President Raul Rocha condemning his actions in a public statement. “I will not allow the values of respect and dignity toward women to be violated,” Rocha declared, criticizing Nawat for forgetting the essential responsibilities of a host. As a result, Nawat’s role in the competition has been curtailed.

In a subsequent press conference, Nawat appeared visibly upset, wearing a tuxedo and dabbing his eyes with a handkerchief while claiming he felt “betrayed.” During the competition’s opening ceremony on Wednesday, he publicly apologized to the contestants, stating, “I have not intended to harm anyone because I respect all of you. I have to say I am so sorry.”

This incident is not an isolated one for Nawat, who also leads the Thailand-based Miss Grand International pageant. Last year, contestants expressed outrage after being subjected to substandard conditions while participating in an event, which included sitting on plastic chairs during a boat tour.

Even prior to the conflict involving Bosch, the Miss Universe pageant had faced scrutiny. Thai media reported that police were investigating contestants for allegedly breaching local gambling laws by filming promotional content featuring pillows branded with an online casino’s name in their hotel.

The final event for this year’s Miss Universe pageant is scheduled for November 21, 2023, in Nonthaburi Province. With the competition set to attract international attention, the organization will likely be focused on moving forward from the recent controversies.

As discussions surrounding respect and empowerment in pageantry continue, the spotlight remains on how the events in Thailand will shape the future of such competitions.