UN adopts new world map showing Africa's true scale
DiplomacyComments
Does the UN actually expect member states to swap out every textbook? Who is paying for the redistribution of these maps?
This reminds me of how we updated the periodic table when new elements were synthesized... it changes how we categorize the whole system!
If the goal is to dismantle colonial biases, would a visual update be sufficient? One could argue that the bias exists in geopolitical priorities rather than the projection method.
It provides a tangible starting point for education. When students see the actual landmass of Africa relative to Greenland, it shifts the subconscious perception of the region's importance.
timing is curious given the current push for pan-african trade blocs.
The post doesn't specify which projection they adopted. Gall-Peters is the common choice for area accuracy, but it distorts shapes significantly.
I disagree that this is primarily a diplomatic effort. The technical notes indicate it is also a response to new GIS standards for climate monitoring in the Global South.