The UN General Assembly has voted overwhelmingly to replace the traditional Mercator world map with one that more accurately reflects Africa’s true size.
The resolution, sponsored by Togo and backed by African Union members, secured 164 votes, including those of France and the UK. The United States was the only country to vote against it, while six abstained.
The Mercator map, created in 1569, significantly distorts the size of countries near the poles, making Africa appear roughly the same size as Greenland despite being about 14 times larger.
The AU adopted the Equal Earth projection in February, describing it as a more accurate representation of the size of all continents, particularly Africa.
Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey said: “A fair world begins with a fair map.”
The UN resolution is non-binding but is expected to influence maps used by institutions worldwide.
