Africa: New World Map Makes Africa Look Bigger - What's the Fuss About? Cartographers Explain

What the report says

The Conversation Africa, distributed by AllAfrica, reports that the United Nations has backed the Equal Earth Projection in a non-binding resolution aimed at encouraging a more accurate representation of the world’s landmasses. The article says the move responds to long-standing criticism of the Mercator Projection, which enlarges areas near the poles and can make Africa appear much smaller than it is. It notes that cartographers regard all flat maps as distorted to some degree, but that different projections serve different purposes.

According to the report, Equal Earth is better suited for global maps used in education, public communication and policy discussions because it reduces size distortions and offers a fairer comparison of continents and countries. The piece adds that Mercator remains useful for navigation, which is why many digital mapping services still rely on versions of it for directions.

The article says the UN vote will not by itself replace existing maps, since no central body controls worldwide map standards. Wider adoption would require changes in textbooks, databases, media products and diplomatic materials. The projection, introduced in 2018, is already used in some wall maps and media, but its spread depends on individual and institutional choices.

The report also notes limited resistance in the UN debate, including concerns over disputed territory and a lone U.S. vote against the measure. It frames the broader significance as part of an effort by African countries and other supporters to challenge visual biases that can shape perceptions of global importance.