UN resolution on global map distortions

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a non-binding resolution, titled ‘Correct the Map’, to promote cartographic representations that more accurately reflect the true relative sizes of the world’s continents. Proposed by Togo and endorsed by the African Union, the initiative received 164 votes in favor, with the United States voting against the measure and labeling the debate as “ridiculous and ideological.”

The resolution seeks to challenge the dominance of the Mercator projection, which, while useful for maritime navigation, distorts landmasses near the poles. Proponents noted that under the Mercator projection, Africa can appear similar in size to Greenland, despite being approximately 14 times larger. Supporters of the campaign argue that the Mercator model promotes a Eurocentric worldview and ‘cartographic colonialism’ by visually diminishing the Global South.

To address these historical visual distortions, the UN encourages the use of more proportional alternatives, specifically endorsing the Equal Earth projection. While not legally binding, the resolution is intended to influence standards in education, public communication, and policy-making to better reflect global patterns in population, environment, and development. During the vote, six nations—including Serbia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine—abstained, while the United States maintained its opposition, arguing that the UN should not ‘dictate standards in science and navigation’.

Following the passage of the resolution, France, a co-sponsor of the initiative, welcomed the diplomatic outcome and announced that it will abandon the Mercator projection in its own diplomatic uses.