The most shocking adverts ever

Over the decades advertisers have used a number of techniques to grab our attention. Shock tactics have proved to be the most effective though, instantly generating conversation, sometimes in a good way and sometimes in a frankly horrific way. We’ve compiled a list of the ten most shocking adverts ever. Let the debate begin.

HUMANS FOR ANIMALS, ‘SEAL’ (FRANCE, 2005)

This shocking image confronts animal cruelty.

SERVE, ‘YOU NEED HELP’ AND ‘IT’S WRONG’ (USA, 2008)

Serve made a statement with these highly sexualised adverts.

CONCORDIA CHILDREN’S SERVICES, ‘PIGLETS’ (PHILIPPINES, 2008)

Concordia Children’s Service’s photo powerfully displays neglect.

WWF BRASIL, ‘TSUNAMI’ (BRAZIL, 2009)

Trying to show the number of people killed in the 2004 Asian tsunami, this image sparked widespread anger.

SUPERETTE, ‘BE CAUGHT DEAD IN IT’ (NEW ZEALAND, 2009)

Again, a step too far for the ‘high fashion’ house.

GOOD PARENT POLAND, ‘YOU CAN LOSE MORE THAN YOUR PATIENCE’ (POLAND, 2009)

Here, Good Parent Poland put things into horrifying perspective.

CASA DO MENOR, ‘HANDS’ (SPAIN, 2009)

This carefully orchestrated photo portrays the lasting and terrifying effects of child abuse.

METTIAMOCILATESTA.IT, ‘DON’T CUT A DREAM’ (ITALY, 2009)

A beheaded Father Christmas is probably one step too far.

EKBURG.RU, ‘THINK OF BOTH SIDES’ (RUSSIA, 2013)

This striking image makes a strong comment on road safety.

CRISIS RELIEF SINGAPORE, ‘LIKING ISN’T HELPING’ (SINGAPORE, 2013)

Crisis Relief Singapore won the Cannes Lion advertising award for this powerful image, which criticises social media users.