UN Resolution Urges New Map Projections, Sparking Debate
A landmark UN vote challenges traditional world mapping, advocating for a more equitable representation.
The Full Story
On September 4, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution encouraging the abandonment of the traditional Mercator projection in favour of the Equal Earth projection. This decision, backed primarily by African nations and tabled by Togo, aims to promote a fairer representation of the world by addressing area size distortions that disproportionately favour certain countries. With 164 votes in favour, the resolution saw only one dissenting vote from the US, which dismissed it as a 'radical ideological project.' Ukraine and five other countries abstained from voting, often citing concerns about how varying projections can depict territorial disputes, especially in regions like Eastern Europe.
The Mercator map, widely used in educational settings, often exaggerates the size of countries located further from the equator while diminishing the apparent size of African nations. For example, South Africa appears about 31% larger than its actual size on these maps, creating skewed perceptions of the country's significance on the global stage. The resolution emphasizes that shaping perception through fair mapping can profoundly impact global understanding. As Togo's foreign minister Robert Dussey stated, “A fair map changes how we see the world.”
Despite this push for change, many digital platforms, including Google Maps, still default to the Mercator projection, making it challenging to realize widespread acceptance of the new approach. Recent changes to geographical names on digital maps reflect political biases and highlight the complexities involved in achieving an objective representation. For example, Google Maps users in the US now see Lake Ontario labeled as “Lake America,” while Canadian users continue to see the traditional name.
While scientists and educators could benefit from using models that more accurately reflect the globe's geography, the enduring influence of the Mercator projection raises questions about public perception and geographical literacy. The implications of this UN resolution could shape education, international relations, and the geospatial industry, signaling a pivotal moment in the history of cartography. As discussions evolve about how we visualize our world, the challenge will remain to adopt perspectives that encompass a more equitable approach to mapping.
The debate surrounding geographical representation is ongoing. The resolution may serve as a catalyst for broader discussions about the implications of various mapping conventions and how they affect countries' visibility on the global stage. As stakeholders navigate the complexities of accurate depiction in cartography, the interplay between cultural, political, and social landscapes will undoubtedly continue to influence investment and advances within the geospatial field. It is essential to consider not only the technical aspects of mapping but also its socio-political ramifications, ensuring that our understanding of geography evolves alongside our values and global dynamics.
Why It Matters
This resolution advocates for a fairer representation of global geography, which could reshape our understanding of the world and impact international relations. How countries appear on maps can significantly influence perceptions of their importance and value in the global arena.
What's Next
Moving forward, discussions will continue within the UN and other international platforms about implementing these new mapping recommendations. Countries and stakeholders will explore the implications on education, geopolitics, and global cartography standards.