• 2006
• Cartographic
• Exhibit map

The World Bank’s Data Group, National Geographic, and the United Nations undertook a partnership in 2005 to raise awareness of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by producing and disseminating a large-format, full-color wall map highlighting progress toward the goals. National Geographic was responsible for the cartography and design, with input from the World Bank. The data was taken from the World Bank’s World Development Indicators (WDI) database and the United Nations’ website. Produced in 2006, the map presents data up to 2004. The center map portrays the world by income, thus providing a global overview of poverty, the first MDG. All eight MDG goals and their human impact are shown below the world map. The map and charts in the upper-right corner show that much progress has been made in reducing poverty. Prospects are good that the 2015 goal will be met—i.e., the proportion of people that live on less than U.S. $1 a day will be reduced by half. The MDGs are an international commitment. They have been accepted by both poor and rich countries as a framework for measuring development progress. Poor countries have actively committed to reducing poverty. Wealthy countries have promised to support global economic and social development. Keep the promise. Visit http://un.org/millenniumgoals.