UN endorses Equal Earth map to correct Africa's size distortion

The UN General Assembly adopted a non-binding resolution on Wednesday supporting the adoption of the Equal Earth map projection, a move aimed at addressing long-standing geographical misrepresentations in global cartography. The resolution passed with 164 votes in favour, one against, and six abstentions, demonstrating broad international consensus on the issue.

The Mercator projection, developed in the 16th century, has dominated world maps for centuries but significantly distorts the relative sizes of landmasses, particularly those near the equator. Africa, the world's second-largest continent, appears substantially smaller on Mercator maps than it actually is—a distortion that cartographers and educators have increasingly criticised for perpetuating Eurocentric perspectives in geography education and policy-making.

The Equal Earth projection, developed in 2018, presents all landmasses at their true relative sizes without distortion. Proponents argue that accurate map representation is essential for fostering equitable global understanding and correcting historical biases embedded in educational materials and public perception.

While the resolution is non-binding and does not mandate countries to adopt the Equal Earth projection, it represents a symbolic endorsement of cartographic reform. The overwhelming vote count reflects growing international recognition that map projections are not neutral tools but carry significant cultural and political implications for how nations and continents are perceived globally.