'Equal World' Map Adopted at the United Nations
The United Nations General Assembly has approved the 'Equal World' map projection resolution, which enlarges Africa and shrinks North America and Europe.
The United Nations General Assembly has approved the new 'Equal World' map projection, which aims for a more accurate representation of the continents and enlarges Africa. The resolution, supported by 164 countries, was opposed by the US.
Map Resolution at the United Nations
The United Nations General Assembly voted on Friday to adopt a new world map that enlarges the African continent and shrinks North America and Europe.
Voting Results and the US Stance
The resolution, prepared for a more accurate representation of continental landmasses, received the support of 164 countries, while the United States voted against it and six states abstained.
Purpose of the Equal World Projection
Known as the Equal World cartographic projection, the new map aims to increase the accuracy of the world's cartographic representation, as stated in the resolution.
Abandonment of the Mercator Projection
The resolution calls on member states to use the new map in place of the traditional Mercator projection, which was designed in 1569 by the Flemish cartographer Gerardus Mercator.
Statements by Togo's Foreign Minister
Togo's Foreign Minister Robert Dussey, who spearheaded the resolution, emphasized that maps guide education and influence collective perceptions, stating that they are not neutral.
Criticisms from the US Representative
Prior to the vote, United States representative Yaryna Ferencevych said that discussing old map projections instead of focusing on real problems undermines the institution's credibility.
France's Support for the Resolution
France, one of the co-sponsors supporting the resolution, announced that it would abandon the Mercator projection, drawing attention to the disproportionate visual weights in the old map.