Miss Universe 2025: A Crown of Controversy and Triumph
The 2025 Miss Universe pageant, a global spectacle of beauty and talent, crowned its new queen in a competition that was both glamorous and tumultuous. Mexico’s Fatima Bosch, a 25-year-old humanitarian and volunteer, emerged as the winner, captivating audiences and critics alike. But the road to the crown was not without its challenges.
The pageant, held in Thailand, witnessed a heated exchange between a Thai pageant director and Bosch during a live-streamed meeting, leading to a walkout by several contestants. Despite this controversy, Bosch’s charisma and poise shone through, earning her the title from last year’s winner, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark.
The top 5 finalists, a diverse group of women from Thailand, Venezuela, the Philippines, Ivory Coast, and Mexico, showcased their talents and advocacy platforms. The competition, hosted by American comedian Steve Byrne, featured performances by Thai singer Jeff Satur and a panel of esteemed judges, including Indian badminton legend Saina Nehwal.
The Miss Universe Organisation, founded in 1952, emphasizes more than just beauty. The 2025 pageant, themed ‘The Power of Love’, celebrated culture, purpose, and connection. Contestants addressed global issues at the United Nations General Assembly and discussed how they would empower young girls using the Miss Universe platform.
However, the pageant faced controversies, including allegations of rigging. Judges Omar Harfouch and Claude Makélélé resigned before the finale, sparking concerns. The Miss Universe Organisation, however, assured transparency and fairness, maintaining the integrity of the competition.
The 2025 pageant marked a historic first with the participation of Miss Universe Latina, Mayotte, Niger, and Palestine, while countries like Iraq, Slovenia, Sweden, Ghana, Haiti, Kosovo, and Panama returned after a hiatus. The competition also saw replacements and surprises, such as Déborah Djema’s dethronement for contract refusal and Sihlé Letren’s withdrawal for personal reasons.
Fatima Bosch’s victory is a testament to her resilience and talent, despite the controversies. The Miss Universe Organisation’s commitment to transparency and fairness ensures that the pageant remains a platform for empowerment and cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impact on its participants and viewers worldwide.