Political cartooning in constrained and polarised societies

On Tuesday, January 13, NIAS invites you to join a panel discussion on the growing pressures facing humor – especially political cartooning – in increasingly polarised and constrained democracies.

Bringing together researchers, practitioners, and leading voices from the international cartooning and freedom of expression community, the panel will explore how humor is being restricted, censored, or silenced, and what this erosion means for democratic debate, critical thinking, and social resilience. Through concrete cartoons and real-world case studies, speakers will reflect on the challenges cartoonists face today, from legal persecution and censorship to self-censorship and social backlash.

Speakers include:

• Alberto Godioli, Forum for Humor and the Law

• Tjeerd Royaards, Cartoon Movement

• Zehra Ömeroğlu, cartoonist and graphic novelist, Safe Haven Fellow at NIAS

• Terry Anderson, Cartoonists Rights Network International

• Emanuele Del Rosso, European Cartoon Award

At the same time, the discussion will highlight the vital role of humor and cartooning in sustaining a healthy public sphere. By challenging power, provoking debate, and sharpening critical thought, political cartoons remain a powerful defense of freedom of expression—making their protection more urgent than ever.

The panel will also focus on the coping strategies and resilience developed by cartoonists, as well as the international networks and solidarity structures that support those at risk. Ultimately, the event will make the case that protecting humor and cartooning is not a peripheral cultural issue, but a democratic necessity.