Organizer Information
The International Journalists Association (IJA) organizes the Humanity Cartoons Competition, leveraging the unique power of cartoon art to illuminate pressing social issues. As a global platform dedicated to fostering dialogue through visual satire and humor, the IJA brings together artists, journalists, and activists to address themes of humanity, justice, and equality. This initiative reflects their broader mission to amplify voices against discrimination and promote cross-cultural understanding via creative expression.
Title & Description
Humanity Cartoons Competition – Racism: One Race, Human.
This international cartoon competition invites artists to create original works that confront the pervasive issue of racism through the lens of humor, satire, and poignant illustration. The core purpose is to challenge notions of racial superiority and injustice, underscoring the fundamental truth that humanity comprises a single race. Participants are encouraged to depict the negative impacts of racism—such as division, prejudice, and systemic inequality—while inspiring reflection and empathy. Successful entries will not only critique societal ills but also advocate for unity and human dignity, contributing to a global conversation on equality. This opportunity allows cartoonists to engage with a timely theme, blending artistic creativity with social commentary to foster awareness and change.
Categories
Cartoons (specifically editorial or political cartoons focused on thematic illustration; digital or traditional drawing styles accepted).
Eligibility
Open internationally to all individuals aged 16 and older. Submissions must be original works created by the applicant, previously unpublished or unawarded in other competitions. Artists are required to address the theme by highlighting the detrimental aspects of racism; entries promoting hate, violence, or discrimination are strictly ineligible.
Program Benefits & Awards
Winners receive substantial cash prizes: €1,250 for First Place, €1,000 for Second Place, €750 for Third Place, €500 for the Jury Special Award, and €250 each for three Honorable Mentions (totaling €750 for mentions). Beyond monetary rewards, selected works will be featured in international exhibitions, providing global visibility and networking opportunities. All participants, regardless of winning status, have the chance to showcase their art in these displays, enhancing professional portfolios and contributing to anti-racism advocacy. This exposure can lead to further commissions, collaborations, and recognition within the cartooning community.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
Applicants may submit up to five original cartoons. Each piece must be sized for A3 format (horizontal or vertical orientation) and provided in PDF or JPEG format at 300 DPI resolution for high-quality reproduction. Include a brief artist bio or statement if desired, but focus on the artwork itself. Prohibited elements include any form of hate speech, incitement to violence, defamation of real individuals, child exploitation, pornography, or derogatory content based on race, gender, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. All submissions must affirmatively combat racism rather than perpetuate it.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 31 December 2025
Location
Online
Additional Details
The judging process involves a pre-jury selecting the top 50 entries, followed by evaluation from a prestigious international panel: Luc Descheemaeker (Belgium), Gustavo Fernando Caballero Talavera (Guffo, Mexico), and Ali Miraee (Iran). Artists retain copyright of their works but grant permission for non-commercial exhibition and promotion by the organizers. This competition emphasizes ethical cartooning—entries should provoke thought without harm. For queries, contact the organizers via the website’s contact form. Participation not only hones artistic skills but also aligns creators with a movement for social justice, potentially opening doors to future IJA initiatives.
Website Link: https://humanitycartoons.com/
