Dot maps is usually a highly effective solution to convey the size of enormous numbers. However when every dot represents a human life, there’s a threat that the person tales behind these numbers can be misplaced. Reuters’ newest visualization of European migration tackles this problem head-on: as a substitute of beginning with statistics, it begins with a close-up of a single overcrowded boat, permitting viewers to see the folks on board earlier than zooming out to disclose the hundreds who’ve died or disappeared whereas making an attempt to cross the Mediterranean Sea.
Reuters’ newest story on migration routes to Europe includes a placing 3D visualization of a ship stuffed with migrants. This close-up view of a 3D mannequin then seamlessly transitions to an overhead map view, displaying the boat adrift within the Mediterranean Sea. By starting with a sensible depiction of individuals precariously packed right into a small vessel, the piece powerfully humanizes the hundreds of yellow dots on the map – every representing a migrant who has died or disappeared whereas making an attempt to cross the Mediterranean since 2015.
Final 12 months, at the least 3,812 folks died whereas making an attempt to succeed in Europe. In Stranded at Sea, Reuters explains how Europe’s renewed give attention to deterring migrant crossings has left misery calls unanswered by authorities businesses. On the similar time, Italy has launched insurance policies geared toward limiting the variety of NGO rescues within the Mediterranean.
In the direction of the tip of the article, Reuters returns to its 3D mannequin to point out how the overloaded boat set off from Libya with an engine too small for the variety of passengers on board and with inadequate gas to succeed in its meant vacation spot. Illustrations of the boat additionally spotlight how, as a result of the vessel was so overcrowded, it sat decrease within the water and was due to this fact extra simply overwhelmed by waves that at the moment of 12 months “could be as much as round two metres excessive.”
