The United Nations General Assembly has made a landmark decision to adopt a new world map that more accurately depicts the size of Africa. This decision, known as the “Correct the Map” resolution, was proposed by Togo and received broad support from the African Union (AU) and 164 other countries, including France and the UK. Notably, the United States was the only country to oppose the resolution, with six nations choosing to abstain. Although the resolution is non-binding, it signals a shift in how global institutions may represent geographical data in the future.
Challenge to the Mercator Map
The Mercator projection, a map style that has been in use since the 16th century, has faced criticism for distorting the relative sizes of continents. Specifically, it portrays Africa as comparable in size to Greenland, even though Africa is 14 times larger. This misrepresentation is said to minimize the perceived development needs and potential of equatorial countries.
The Mercator map was originally designed by Flemish cartographer Gerardus Mercator in 1569 to aid European explorers. Its design results in distortions because it is impossible to perfectly represent the curved surface of the Earth on a flat map. Consequently, territories near the equator appear smaller, while those near the poles appear larger.
Efforts to Correct the Map
In response to these distortions, a group of cartographers introduced the Equal Earth projection in 2018, which aims to provide a more accurate representation of the Earth’s continents. Earlier this year, the African Union’s 54 member states adopted this projection, emphasizing its ability to more accurately reflect the true sizes of continents, particularly Africa.
Supporters of the “Correct the Map” movement, such as the online campaign group #CorrectTheMap, highlight the vastness of Africa by stating that the continent could accommodate the United States, China, India, Japan, Mexico, and much of Europe, with land to spare.
Global Reactions
Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey emphasized the importance of fair representation, stating that “a fair world begins with a fair map.” He further remarked that maps are not neutral tools; they shape perceptions and influence how regions are understood globally. France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also expressed support, announcing plans to discontinue the use of the Mercator map.
However, the United States expressed skepticism. Yaryna Ferencevych, a U.S. representative at the UN, criticized the resolution, suggesting it detracts from addressing more pressing global issues such as international peace and prosperity.
The Broader Implications
Lerato Mogoatlhe from Africa No Filter, a group advocating for the change, argues that Africa’s misrepresentation on world maps is more than a cartographic error; it’s a narrative issue. The new map is part of a broader effort to correct longstanding misinformation about Africa.
Kenyan geographer Kioko Muendo points out that maps influence political and economic perceptions, stressing that the Mercator map has downplayed Africa’s resources, population, and investment opportunities.
