Turkish Prosecutors Appeal Cartoonist Zehra Ömeroğlu’s Acquittal

Prominent Turkish cartoonist Zehra Ömeroğlu was acquitted on July 24, 2025 of all charges in a case accusing her of “obscenity” over a cartoon published in LeMan magazine in 2020.

However, Turkish prosecutors have now appealed the acquittal, bringing the case back into the spotlight and reigniting debates about freedom of expression and artistic censorship.

Court Decision and Reasoning

According to Cartoonists Rights, the lengthy legal process involved expert opinions from both sides. The judge ruled that the cartoon contained no elements of criminal obscenity and posed no socially dangerous content.

Despite this, local censors and prosecutors remain determined to pursue the case. Cartoonists Rights believes the prosecution is rooted in misogyny.

International Recognition and Solidarity

In May 2025, Zehra Ömeroğlu received the Robert Russell Courage in Cartooning Award, given to cartoonists who show exceptional bravery in their work.
Cartoonists Rights stated:

“While saddened that her troubles are not yet over, we’ll continue to stand in solidarity with our awardee for as long as it takes.”

Freedom of Expression in Cartooning

In Turkey, cartoonists have often faced legal challenges for their work. This case once again highlights ongoing concerns about freedom of speech, artistic criticism, and censorship in the country.