UN ditches Mercator map to adopt more accurate one reflecting Africa's true size
Summary
The United Nations General Assembly voted to replace the old Mercator map with a new map called the Equal Earth projection. This new map shows the continents' sizes more accurately, making Africa and other regions appear larger and more true to their actual size. The vote had strong support, with 164 countries in favor, while the United States voted against it.Key Facts
- The UN General Assembly voted on September 4, 2026, to adopt a new world map projection.
- The Mercator map, created in 1569, distorts the size of continents, making Europe and North America look bigger.
- The new map, called the Equal Earth projection, shows continents in their real size, especially enlarging Africa, Latin America, South Asia, and Oceania.
- 164 countries supported the resolution; the US voted against it, and six countries abstained.
- The resolution was led by African countries and co-sponsored by France.
- The Equal Earth projection preserves area size better while keeping the shapes of continents similar to a globe.
- France announced it will stop using the Mercator map in response to the vote.
- The change aims to improve how people see the world and support fairer education and understanding.
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