AI Generated Image
UN votes to adopt new map that makes our world look very different
CNN • • nation
Key Points:
- The UN General Assembly adopted the “Correct the Map” resolution, proposed by African Union members and the Bahamas, to replace the Mercator projection with the more accurate Equal Earth projection, aiming to correct centuries-old distortions that minimize Africa and other regions.
- The Mercator map, created in 1569, distorts country sizes, exaggerating regions like Europe, North America, and Greenland while shrinking Africa, which is actually 14 times larger than Greenland, contributing to biased perceptions of global importance.
- The resolution passed overwhelmingly with 164 votes in favor, six abstentions, and only the United States opposing, highlighting widespread international support for more equitable geographic representation.
- France announced it will abandon the Mercator projection in favor of maps that more accurately reflect countries’ true sizes, emphasizing the need to correct visual distortions that influence geopolitical and socioeconomic perceptions.
- The resolution also calls on digital map platforms like Google Maps to collaborate with UN member states to adopt the Equal Earth projection, promoting a fairer global understanding through more accurate cartographic representations.
