UN Approves Resolution to Replace Mercator Projection with Equal Earth, Africa Leads the Charge

On Friday, the United Nations largely endorsed a resolution that calls for the use of the Equal Earth projection to correct the size distortions of continents caused by the long‑used Mercator map. The move follows an African‑led campaign that highlighted how the Mercator projection exaggerates the size of northern landmasses while shrinking Africa. The United States was the only country to vote against the resolution, labeling it part of a “larger ideological project.” The non‑binding resolution urges governments to promote the Equal Earth projection in schools and other public materials, framing the change as an act of cognitive justice and memorial reparation.