Controversy has erupted within the Miss Universe organization after a high-ranking executive was captured on video allegedly making derogatory remarks towards a contestant.
The incident led to a significant protest by several contestants, who walked out after Nawat Itsaragrisil criticized Fatima Bosch, the Mexican representative. This confrontation occurred following Bosch’s absence from a promotional photoshoot.
A live-streamed video on Facebook shows executive Itsaragrisil reprimanding the contestants, with a particular focus on Bosch.
As Bosch exited the room, she addressed Itsaragrisil, stating: “As women, you need to show respect for us. I’m here representing a country and it’s not my fault that you have problems with my organization.”
The organization has now reached a decision regarding Itsaragrisil’s position.
Raúl Rocha, the President of Miss Universe, has declared that Itsaragrisil will be limited in his involvement with the 74th pageant.
In a bilingual statement, Rocha stated: “I have restricted Nawat’s participation in the events that are part of the 74th Miss Universe competition, limiting it as much as possible or eliminating it entirely.
“I will not allow the values of respect and dignity towards women to be violated. [I have] great indignation towards Nawat for the public aggression he committed against Fátima Bosch, Miss Universe Mexico, whom he humiliated, insulted, and showed lack of respect to, [with] serious abuse by calling security to intimidate a defenseless woman.”
He further emphasized: “Nawat, you need to stop.”
Rocha also mentioned the sash presentation was postponed to avoid Itsaragrisil’s involvement.
Following the incident, Itsaragrisil, who was serving as the National Director of Miss Universe Thailand, has issued multiple apologies, even appearing visibly emotional during one address to the media.
Addressing the contestants, he stated: “I want to take this opportunity to say something about something that’s happened, because I am a human.
“I think you must understand the pressure is a lot, I am a human sometimes. I cannot control. By the way, I have not intend[ed] to harm anyone because I respect all of you. I am so sorry it happened… If anyone was affected and not comfortable with what happened, I am so sorry.”
Despite his apologies, Itsaragrisil contested claims of calling Bosch a ‘dummy,’ stating he actually said ‘damage.’
The Miss Universe 2025 event is set to be held on 21 November in Pak Kret, Thailand.