UN Approves New World Map to Reflect True Country Sizes

Sep 5, 2026

75 min

Sep 5, 2026 16:31

UN votes to redraw map to show true size of all countries

## UN General Assembly Decision

The United Nations General Assembly has voted in favor of a new world map that accurately represents the true sizes of countries. This decision aims to address the distortions caused by the widely used Mercator projection, which inaccurately portrays the relative sizes of countries, particularly those near the equator.

## Voting Outcome

The resolution was overwhelmingly supported, with 164 countries voting in favor and only the United States opposing it. Six countries chose to abstain from the vote. The initiative, primarily backed by African nations, seeks to promote the use of map projections like the Equal Earth projection, which better reflect the actual size of landmasses.

## Impact of Map Projections

The Mercator projection, commonly used in navigation, tends to exaggerate the size of regions far from the equator. For example, it makes Greenland appear comparable in size to Africa, despite Africa being 14 times larger. This has led to misconceptions about the true scale of countries and continents.

## Statements from African Leaders

Togo's Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, emphasized the importance of accurate maps in shaping global perceptions and education. He stated that Africa is not seeking preferential treatment but rather a fair representation of its reality and contributions to the world.

## Future Implications

While the resolution does not ban the Mercator projection, it encourages the adoption of alternatives that provide a more accurate depiction of the world. This change is expected to influence educational materials and public understanding of global geography.

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