United Nations adopts resolution to correct global map distortions

The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a non-binding resolution, A/RES/80/307, aimed at rebalancing global cartographic representation. The resolution, which passed with 164 votes in favor, one against, and six abstentions, encourages member states and international organizations to use equal-area projections, such as Equal Earth, when the relative size of landmasses is a primary focus.

The initiative was spearheaded by Togo on behalf of the African Union through the campaign ‘Correcting Africa’s Map in the World’. Proponents argue that the widely used Mercator projection, while useful for maritime navigation, creates significant visual distortions by enlarging landmasses near the poles. For example, on a Mercator map, Greenland appears comparable in size to Africa, even though Africa is approximately 14 times larger.

Supporters view the move as a form of symbolic reparation to address colonial-era visual hierarchies and promote a more equitable perception of the Global South. The United States was the sole dissenting vote, while several nations, including Estonia, Georgia, and Ukraine, abstained. The resolution does not prohibit the use of the Mercator projection for navigation or local purposes but invites a review of educational materials and the development of new cartographic standards.