UN Endorses More Accurate Representation of Africa on Global Maps

UN General Assembly Supports New Map Projection

The United Nations General Assembly endorsed a new world map that aims to accurately represent Africa’s larger size. This decision is the outcome of a campaign led by African countries and advocacy groups. The resolution, sponsored by Togo and supported by African Union members, passed with the approval of 164 member states. The United States voted against it, while six countries, including Serbia, Estonia, and Ukraine, abstained.

Equal Earth Projection Recommended

The vote encourages the global shift from the traditional Mercator map to the Equal Earth projection. This new representation corrects geographical distortions, presenting locations more accurately. For example, the Mercator map depicts Greenland and Africa as similar in size. The Equal Earth map reveals Africa as 14 times larger than Greenland.

The resolution does not prohibit the Mercator projection but advocates for adopting the Equal Earth model, according to the UN.

Educational Impact and Advocacy

“Maps shape our understanding of the world,” stated Togo’s Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, highlighting their role in education and perception before the vote. Campaigner group Africa No Filter expressed support, emphasizing the need for accurate maps in educational materials, newsrooms, and digital platforms.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized the importance of correcting map distortions as an act of truth.

Historical Context and Future Directions

Historically, the Mercator map was designed by Gerardus Mercator to assist European sea navigators. Critics argue it distorted landmasses, enlarging regions like Greenland while shrinking continents such as Africa. Conversely, the Equal Earth projection offers a more realistic representation of Earth’s landforms by accommodating the planet’s curvature.

Mark Monmonier, a geography professor at Syracuse University, noted the limited practicality of the Mercator map beyond navigation.

The adoption of the Equal Earth map marks a significant step toward better geographic understanding and education regarding global proportions.