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UN approves resolution in support of map that shows Africa's true size
The non-binding measure passed 164-1 and urges wider use of equal-area maps that show Africa’s true size more accurately, officials said.
- The UN General Assembly voted 164 to 1 in favor of an African-led resolution to phase out the traditional Mercator map projection in global institutions.
- Sponsored by Togo and supported by the African Union, the non-binding resolution promotes the use of the "Equal Earth" map projection to depict the true geographical proportions of Africa and other equatorial regions.
- Proponents of the "Correct the Map" initiative argued that the 1569 Mercator projection distorts continental sizes by enlarging landmasses near the poles, making Africa appear roughly equal in size to Greenland when it is actually 14 times larger.
- The resolution encourages schools, international organizations, and tech companies to adopt equal-area maps while acknowledging Mercator's continued utility for maritime and aerial navigation.
- The United States cast the sole opposing vote, describing the measure as an unnecessary "ideological agenda" that distracts from core international peacekeeping and diplomatic priorities.
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291 Articles
291 Articles
UNGA adopts Correct the Map resolution which depicts Africas true size; AU Chairperson welcomes move - The Tribune
The United Nations General Assembly on Friday (local time) adopted an African Union-backed resolution titled "Correct the Map", calling for more accurate and equitable cartographic representation of the world's regions, particularly Africa.
·Chandigarh, India
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Africa is to be enlarged - at least on the world map. The UN voted for a new map to better reflect the actual size ratio. Only the USA were against it.
·Hamburg, Germany
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources291
Leaning Left59Leaning Right39Center38Last UpdatedBias Distribution43% Left
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources lean Left
43% Left
L 43%
C 28%
R 29%
Factuality
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