Controversy over map distortion as UN backs equal‑area projection

The United Nations' latest recommendation to use an equal‑area world map has sparked debate among member states. Supported by 164 countries, the resolution replaces the widely used Mercator projection—named after 16th‑century cartographer Gerardus Mercator—with a map that accurately reflects the surface area of every continent. The United States stood alone in voting against the measure, warning that such a shift could undermine established geopolitical perceptions. The new projection shrinks the visual size of North America while expanding the appearance of regions like Africa and South America, offering a more balanced view of global geography. Advocates, including Togo's foreign minister, describe the change as a step toward de‑colonialising cartography and fostering mutual respect among nations.