United Nations' New World Map Decision Sparks Controversy

The United Nations General Assembly approved a resolution encouraging the use of new world maps that accurately reflect the true sizes of continents. While broad support was achieved in the vote, the depiction of certain disputed regions on the map triggered concerns from Ukraine, Japan, and India.

New Map Projection Adopted

It was decided to promote the new world maps utilizing the Equal Earth projection, prepared as a result of months of efforts by the African Union. In the vote held, 164 countries voted in favor, 6 countries abstained, and the United States was the only country to oppose the resolution.

Reaction from Ukraine Over Crimea Depiction

Ukraine, which abstained from the vote, expressed discomfort over the depiction of the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula on the new map in a light color different from the mainland and close to Russia's tone. Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the UN, Andrii Melnyk, stated that this situation could lead to the manipulation of the world map.

Correction Request from Japan Regarding Kuril Islands

Japan, which voted in favor of the resolution, called for corrections on the map because the Kuril Islands—administered by Russia and referred to by Japan as the Northern Territories—and Russian territories were shown with the same color tones. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara emphasized that depictions contradicting their official position must be corrected.

India's Kashmir Border Warning

The Ministry of External Affairs of India, which voted positively on the projection, issued a reservation regarding the depiction of the disputed border region of Kashmir. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India's sovereign territories, including Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, must be portrayed in accordance with the country's official map.