International Editorial Cartoon Competition Award
An important highlight of the World Press Freedom Day Luncheon is the recognition of editorial cartoonists from around the world who have used images and words to make powerful commentary on global issues. Editorial cartoons serve as a vital form of journalistic expression, using satire, humor, and symbolism to provoke thought, challenge authority, and highlight injustices. These visual commentaries distill complex political and social issues into compelling imagery, making them accessible to broad audiences while sparking crucial discussions.
In many parts of the world, editorial cartoonists face significant risks, including censorship, harassment, and even imprisonment, for their work. Their bold illustrations often critique governments, expose corruption, and amplify the voices of the marginalized, making them key defenders of press freedom. By recognizing these artists, the World Press Freedom Day Luncheon underscores the essential role they play in upholding democratic values and holding power to account.
This celebration also serves as a reminder of the broader fight for press freedom and the dangers faced by journalists and media professionals who strive to report the truth. Editorial cartoons are not just artistic expressions; they are powerful tools of resistance, challenging oppressive narratives and ensuring that freedom of expression remains a cornerstone of a free and open society.
The 2025 International Editorial Cartoon Competition is now closed!
Belgium cartoonist Constantin Sunnerberg (Cost) wins 2025 International Editorial Cartoon contest
The theme of the 25th International Editorial Cartoon Competition was It’s a Trump World. At Trump’s first inauguration, it was easy to dismiss « alternative facts » about the size of those in attendance. Now with American big tech bosses bowing at his feet, « alternative facts » may become the only ones we know as Facebook eliminates factchecking in the name of free expression and Twitter reinstates Trump’s account, making it increasingly difficult to discern the truth. Media outlets refuse to endorse opposition candidates by invoking political neutrality and live under the threat of expensive lawsuits. There may have been adults in the room during Trump’s first mandate but his current circle appears to be catering to his every whim.
Constantin Sunnerberg (Cost), was born in Moscow. He now lives and works in Brussels, and has been published in many national and international newspaper such as Le Soir, Courrier international, Espace de Libertés, Journal du Mardi, Le Vif-L’express, among others. Cost won eight prizes for his editorial cartoons (4 World Press Cartoon and 4 Press Cartoon Belgium). He also received, over six years, about fifty International cartoon prizes in 19 different countries.
Second place prize winner Dimitrios Georgopalis was born in Corfu, Greece. He is member of the Journalists’ Union and the Greek Cartoonists Association. He has taken part in many cartoon exhibitions both in Greece and abroad. In December 2024, he traveled to Mexico as a guest of the School of Arts, Architecture, and Design at the University of Guadalajara, where he was honoured with an award. Currently, he works as editorial cartoonist and illustrator for the weekly newspaper Realnews.
Third place prize winner Hicabi Demirci was born in Samsun, Turkey. He graduated from the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Ankara. He was part of the animation studio that he had joined during his college years. His works include book, magazine and journal covers. He has been given awards in various national and international cartoon competitions.
2025 runners up
Canadian editorial cartoonist Bruce MacKinnon wins 2024 International Editorial Cartoon Competition
Canadian cartoonist Bruce MacKinnon won the International Editorial Cartoon Contest for his cartoon based on the theme of Artificial Intelligence: Yes or No?
Brazil’s Dalcio Machado won second place and Serbia’s Jugoslav Vlahovic placed third.
AI can help journalists gather information, but deep fakes and voice simulators capable of generating credible audio segments can cast doubt on the authenticity of content and put democracy at risk.
2024 Runners Up
See past International Editorial Cartoon Competition Award Winners
