Nicaraguan model Sheynnis Palacios has joined voices with Ximena Navarrete, Miss Universe 2010, and the current queen, Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig. The controversy began after Nawat Itsaragrisil, director of Miss Universe Thailand, made offensive remarks toward Mexican contestant Fátima Bosch. Several former contestants, including past Miss Universe winners like Navarrete (2010) and Palacios (2023), have spoken out in response.
Palacios, who was crowned Miss Universe 2023 in San Salvador, El Salvador, shared her feelings about the unfortunate situation that unfolded during the Thailand gathering.
She posted a message on her Instagram stories expressing her disappointment with how the event was being conducted, criticizing the host country’s pageant director for publicly humiliating a contestant. “Since the start of this Miss Universe edition’s concentration, on this side of the world we’ve been waking up to ‘surprises’ every day, and today was no exception. Miss Universe is a celebration of women with voices who inspire a large community that supports the pageant—among them, girls and women who believe in the change we can make in society," the model said.
“Some of the values that should guide Miss Universe—respect, dignity, gender equality, and transparency—are being questioned,” she wrote in her story.
Palacios made her stance clear, saying that Nawat Itsaragrisil’s behavior was unacceptable. “It’s not acceptable for a woman to be insulted or publicly belittled under the spotlight of an international pageant that claims to promote women’s voices, talent, and dignity. Pageants are platforms for empowerment, inspiration, and leadership. When power dynamics, humiliation, or disrespect arise, that purpose is betrayed," she added.
“The contestants deserve a safe, professional, and dignified environment—not just as competitors, but as women representing their countries, with dreams, talent, and their own identities.”
“One thing I’m completely sure of is that this is not the true essence of Miss Universe. I believe the organization will realign with what we all know and love about Miss Universe and will take the necessary measures to ensure respect for ALL contestants. Because a crown should never cost a woman her dignity. And because representing a country, a culture, and womanhood is more than just wearing a sash—it’s a legacy of respect,” she concluded.
Miss Universe President Speaks Out
Miss Universe President Raul Rocha has addressed the controversy surrounding the Thai director's remarks about Miss Mexico, which caused considerable uproar. Itsaragrisil's public clash with Bosch prompted several contestants to walk out and triggered a significant backlash on social media.
In a video shared on Miss Universe's official social media platforms, Rocha stated: "I want to express my solidarity and support to all delegates representing the 122 countries at the Miss Universe competition in which Thailand is our host country."
"I will not allow the values of respect and dignity toward women to be violated. Unfortunately, Nawat has forgotten the true meaning of what it means to be a genuine host. It means to demonstrate to all delegates of all countries that he, as a host, has the obligation to serve them, assist them, support them and to ensure they have a unique life experience filled with kindness and courtesy. So that they may enjoy and take from Thailand the best memories of their lives, in an atmosphere of healthy and friendly competition."
Nawat Itsaragrisil has apologized and clarified his position following a tense encounter with Miss Mexico. He addressed the issue during a live broadcast that was subsequently shared on various Instagram pages dedicated to beauty pageants. “If anyone feels bad, uncomfortable, or affected, I apologize to everyone. I especially apologized to the girls who were present, around 75 of them,” said the Thai businessman, who also serves as president of Miss Grand International.
As tensions rise during the competition's pre-final phase, many have speculated whether Fátima Bosch would continue in the contest. The Mexican representative herself addressed the rumors. “I haven’t seen anything on social media because we’ve been in activities, but I just want to tell my country that I’m here, and I’m not afraid to raise my voice,” she said during a dinner cruise attended by contestants. With her trademark confidence, she added, “I’m here stronger than ever. I have a purpose, things to say, and spaces to occupy. We’re in the 21st century, and I’m not a doll to be painted, styled, or dressed up. I came here to raise my voice for all women and girls fighting for their causes.”