UN General Assembly endorses a new world map that shows more accurately Africa's size
Summary
The UN General Assembly has endorsed a new world map projection that shows Africa’s size more accurately, backing the Equal Earth map in place of the traditional Mercator projection. The resolution, sponsored by Togo and supported by the African Union, passed with 164 votes in favor despite opposition from the U.S.
Key Points
- The UN General Assembly endorsed the Equal Earth projection to represent Africa and other continents more accurately.
- The resolution was sponsored by Togo and backed by the African Union, passing with 164 votes in favor and one against.
- Advocates say the Mercator map distorts land sizes, making Africa and Greenland appear nearly the same size.
- The vote encourages governments, schools, newsrooms and institutions to adopt more accurate maps, but it does not ban the Mercator projection.
