UN Embraces New Map to Highlight Africa's True Size
By Editor • September 5, 2026 • 1 min read
In a historic vote on Friday, the United Nations has taken a significant step towards correcting geographical misconceptions by endorsing a resolution that supports a map showcasing Africa's actual dimensions. This change, driven by African nations, aims to challenge outdated perceptions stemming from the 16th-century Mercator projection.
The Mercator map has long distorted the relative sizes of countries, often relegating Africa to a smaller, less significant position in global geography. By adopting a new mapping approach, the UN is acknowledging the importance of accurately representing Africa's vastness and significance on the world stage.
This resolution serves not only as a geographical correction but also as a symbol of empowerment for African states, emphasizing their central role in global discussions and helping to reshape narratives about the continent's importance.
Source: www.france24.com