The UN Endorses New Map That Accurately Represents Africa’s Size

The United Nations General Assembly has endorsed the Equal Earth map projection, which provides a more accurate representation of Africa’s size and proportions. This resolution, sponsored by Togo and backed by African countries, passed with 164 member states voting in favor, while only the U.S. opposed it.

Critics of the Mercator map, designed to aid European navigators, have long argued that it distorts landmasses, particularly Africa and South America. These distortions have contributed to stereotypes and the marginalization of African nations in global discourse. The adoption of the Equal Earth map is a welcome development, but it’s essential to recognize that this change goes beyond aesthetics or navigation.

Maps shape our understanding of the world, influencing education, imagination, and collective perceptions. For centuries, the Mercator projection has been used without question or critique, reinforcing a Eurocentric view of the world. Africa No Filter, one of the lead campaigners for the adoption of the new map, emphasizes the importance of accurate representations in schools, textbooks, newsrooms, businesses, and digital platforms.

This campaign highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of Africa’s place within the global community. By promoting the Equal Earth map, we can begin to dismantle the cartographic biases that have contributed to Africa’s historical marginalization. The U.S.’s opposition to the resolution raises questions about its commitment to promoting accurate representations of global geography.

The adoption of the Equal Earth map is not without precedent. In recent years, there have been efforts to promote more accurate cartographic representations, particularly in the context of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. These initiatives demonstrate a growing recognition of the need for a more nuanced understanding of the world’s diverse cultures and histories.

As we move forward with this new resolution, its implications extend beyond the realm of cartography. The promotion of accurate representations has far-reaching consequences for education, media, and public discourse. By embracing the Equal Earth map, we can begin to create a more inclusive and equitable global community.

Implementing this resolution will undoubtedly face challenges. There may be pushbacks from those who resist changes to established practices. However, this endorsement represents an important step towards promoting cartographic truth and challenging the Eurocentric biases that have shaped our understanding of the world for centuries.

The adoption of the Equal Earth map is a victory for cartographic accuracy but also serves as a reminder that our understanding of the world is always subject to revision and critique. As we move forward, it’s essential to remain vigilant in promoting accurate representations and challenging the biases that have shaped our worldviews for too long.