Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has voiced her support for Fatima Bosch, Mexico’s representative at Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand, after the beauty queen was publicly berated by Thai pageant host in an incident that has sparked global outrage.
At a press conference in Mexico City on Wednesday, Sheinbaum praised Bosch’s composure and courage in standing up to the verbal attack by Nawat Itsaragrisil.
File photo: Miss Universe Mexico Fátima Bosch.//Photo: her Instagram
““I want to commend her for facing this aggression with dignity and saying, ‘I disagree. She experiences this aggression and very dignifiedly says, ‘I disagree.’ It seems to me that this is an example of how women should speak up,” Sheinbaum said.
Sheinbaum is the first female president of Mexico.
The president also criticized the outdated notion that women “look prettier when they’re quiet,” adding that “women look more beautiful when we speak up and participate in society.”
The controversy erupted earlier this week when Bosch staged a dramatic walkout, still wearing her evening gown and sash after being scolded by Nawat, the director of Miss Universe Thailand.
In a livestreamed rehearsal, Nawat appeared to single out Bosch for not attending a sponsor photo shoot, reportedly calling her “dumb.” He later denied using the term.
Footage showed Bosch leaving the room accompanied by Miss Iraq, telling reporters outside: “The world needs to see this because we are empowered women, and this is a platform for our voice.”
The confrontation quickly escalated into a feminist flashpoint, with other contestants hesitating to intervene as Nawat warned that anyone wishing to continue in the competition should “sit down.”
The Miss Universe Organization has since condemned Nawat’s behavior, with its president Raul Rocha declaring that “the values of respect and dignity toward women must never be violated.”
Rocha said Nawat’s role in the event would be “limited.”
In a separate press conference, Nawat appeared emotional, dressed in a tuxedo and wiping away tears as he apologized. “I am human. The pressure is a lot,” he said. “I have not intended to harm anyone because I respect all of you. I am so sorry.”
Mexico’s embassy in Thailand said it was in “constant communication” with Bosch and her family, but declined further comment.
Despite the turbulence, the pageant is set to proceed, with the final scheduled for November 21.
