---
title: "UN General Assembly votes to adopt new world map"
publication: "MediaBias News"
url: "https://mediabias.news/politics/un-general-assembly-votes-to-adopt-new-world-map"
api: "https://mediabias.news/api/v1/stories/un-general-assembly-votes-to-adopt-new-world-map"
markdown: "https://mediabias.news/politics/un-general-assembly-votes-to-adopt-new-world-map.md"
audio: "https://mediabias.news/api/audio/un-general-assembly-votes-to-adopt-new-world-map"
category: "Politics"
area: "Africa"
published: "2026-09-04T18:45:37.077Z"
source_reported: "2026-09-04T18:15:00.623Z"
updated: "2026-09-04T18:45:37.077Z"
trust_score: 42
critic_score: 57
hype_score: 41
assessment_type: "coverage-and-source-reporting-analysis"
fact_check_status: "not-performed"
coverage_measured: "2026-09-04T20:26:36.965Z"
---

# UN General Assembly votes to adopt new world map

*Resolution aims to better reflect true country sizes, particularly Africa, moving away from Mercator projection.*

**Scores for the source reporting** (0-100, assessing the original journalism this article was written from, not this write-up): 

- Trust 42 of 100, higher is better. The central claim is attributed to the UN General Assembly and African Union member states.
- Craft 57 of 100, higher is better. The reporting is based on digests, with only one full report, limiting the depth of analysis.
- Hype 41 of 100, lower is better. Headlines and digests use phrases like 'very different' and 'major reform' without substantial elaboration.

Scored by MediaBias News; method at https://mediabias.news/methodology.

**The short version**

- The UN General Assembly voted to adopt a new world map resolution.
- The resolution aims to reflect countries' true relative sizes, particularly Africa, correcting distortions from the Mercator projection.
- 164 member states voted in favour, six abstained, and the United States voted against.
- France announced it will abandon the Mercator projection in favour of more accurate representations.

The United Nations General Assembly has voted to adopt a new world map resolution. The resolution aims to provide a more accurate representation of countries' relative sizes, with a particular focus on Africa. This initiative seeks to move away from the Mercator projection, a cartographic method created in 1569 that is criticised for distorting the perceived sizes of landmasses, especially those further from the equator.

## Disagreement on abstaining nations

Reports differ on the number of nations that abstained from the vote. Six member states abstained, according to CTV News and Aleph News. However, El Pais states that Estonia, Georgia, Lithuania, Moldova, Serbia, and Ukraine abstained. Correio da Manhã also lists these six countries as abstaining.

## What the coverage left out

None of the left, centre, or right-rated reports mention France's announcement that it will abandon the Mercator projection in favour of more accurate representations, a detail reported by CTV News.

## Who covered it

Shares of the 82 covering outlets with a published leaning rating:

- Left: 39% (32)
- Centre: 30% (25)
- Right: 31% (25)

99 of 181 covering outlets carried no usable leaning rating and were excluded from those percentages. Coverage measured 2026-09-04T20:26:36.965Z.

**Coverage watch:** developing. Checked 5 times; 0 checks found a material change. Most recently checked 2026-09-04T20:15:13.805Z.

## How the sides framed it

### Left

- Left-rated reports focused on the resolution's aim to correct historical distortions and give Africa its true scale. Africa News highlighted the 'Correct The Map' campaign and the adoption of the Equal Earth projection. NRC Handelsblad and Trouw noted that the Mercator map makes Africa appear the same size as Greenland, when it is in reality fourteen times larger. El Pais described the initiative as seeking 'global cartographic equity' and mentioned Togo's diplomatic efforts on behalf of the African Union. La Repubblica stated the resolution supports the Equal Earth map, which shows true proportions unlike the Mercator projection that is accused of diminishing the African continent. T-online reported that Togo wants to correct world maps and explained what is behind this.

### Centre

- Centre-rated reports highlighted the UN vote and the shift away from the Mercator projection. WTVB and KRDO reported that the UN approved a resolution supporting a map that shows Africa's true size. BBC News stated the resolution was backed by 164 nations, with the US being the only country to vote against it. Dailymail.com reported that maps will change to show countries' true sizes under the UN resolution. CTV News detailed the resolution's aim to reflect countries' true relative sizes, particularly Africa, and mentioned France's announcement that it will abandon the Mercator projection.

### Right

- Right-rated reports focused on the UN vote and the criticism of the Mercator projection's distortion of Africa's size. Firstpost News used the headline 'Greenland looks huge on your map. Africa is actually 14 times bigger.' The Telegraph reported that nations demanded the world map be redrawn 'to show the greatness of Africa'. India Today stated that Africa is bigger than people think and that the UN voted to correct the 'distorted' world map. Aftenposten reported that the UN advocates for a new world map showing Africa's actual size. Dagelijksestandaard.nl and Reformatorisch Dagblad reported that UN member states want more accurate world maps and criticised the Mercator projection. News-pravda.com specifically noted the US cast the sole opposing vote against the resolution backing the Equal Earth map projection.

## Factuality profile of the covering outlets

These are published factuality ratings of the outlets, not a verdict on whether this story or its claims are true.

- veryLow: 1
- low: 1
- mixed: 12
- high: 51
- unknown: 101
- veryHigh: 15

## Verification scope

This page compares coverage and scores the source reporting. It is not a ClaimReview verdict on whether the underlying event or claim is true.

## Original reporting this was written from

- [Business Insider](https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/despite-us-opposition-africa-wins-un-backing-to-correct-world-map-that-shrinks-its/18lgwfw) — Despite US opposition, Africa wins UN backing to correct world map that shrinks its true size
- [Global Diaspora News](https://globaldiasporanews.com/lonu-soutient-loffensive-africaine-pour-redessiner-la-carte-du-monde) — The UN Supports the African Offensive to Redraw the World Map
- [The Journal](https://thejournal.ie/us-votes-against-un-map-7153105-Sep2026) — US the only country to vote against major map reform to more accurately display Africa
- [Novinky.cz](https://novinky.cz/clanek/zahranicni-osn-schvalila-prekresleni-mapy-sveta-40596197) — UN Approves Redrawing of World Map
- [WTX News](https://wtxnews.com/un-adopts-new-world-map-to-accurately-reflect-africas-true-size) — UN adopts new world map to accurately reflect Africa's true size
- [n1info.rs](https://n1info.rs/svet/zasto-je-generalna-skupstina-un-izglasala-usvajanje-nove-mape-sveta) — Why Did the UN General Assembly Vote to Adopt a New World Map
- [Ekstra Bladet](https://ekstrabladet.dk/nyheder/samfund/historisk-fn-stemmer-for-at-skrotte-457-aar-gammelt-verdenskort/11279170) — Historic: UN Scraps World Map
- [The CSR Journal](https://thecsrjournal.in/un-votes-amend-world-map-accurate-representation-africa) — UN Votes to Amend World Map for Accurate Representation of Africa
- [Novi list](https://novilist.hr/novosti/svijet/un-prelomio-dobivamo-realnu-kartu-svijeta-povecava-afriku-smanjuje-sad-a-protiv-je-samo-jedna-zemlja) — UN Breaks, We Get a Realistic Map of the World. It Enlarges Africa, Reduces the USA, and only One Country Is Against It
- [Marcus Oscarsson](https://marcusoscarsson.se/sverige-andras-pa-varldskartan) — Sweden Is Changing on the World Map
- [Creta24](https://creta24.gr/o-oie-tha-psifisei-gia-tin-yiothetisi-neoy-pagkosmioy-charti-poy-apeikonizei-tin-pragmatiki-klimaka-tis-afrikis) — The UN Will Vote on Adopting a New World Map Depicting the True Scale of Africa
- [la Nacion](https://lanacion.com.ar/el-mundo/la-onu-deja-de-lado-los-viejos-mapas-de-mercator-por-una-nueva-cartografia-mundial-mas-cercana-a-la-nid04092026) — The UN Abandons the Old Maps of Mercator for a New World Cartography Closer to Reality
- [Digi 24](https://digi24.ro/stiri/externe/mapamond/harta-lumii-a-fost-modificata-la-onu-pentru-o-reprezentare-mai-apropiata-de-realitate-sua-s-au-opus-3935593) — The Map of the World Has Been Modified at the UN for a Representation Closer to Reality.
- [Face2Face Africa](https://face2faceafrica.com/article/u-s-becomes-only-country-to-oppose-un-adoption-of-map-showing-africas-true-size) — U.S. becomes only country to oppose UN adoption of map showing Africa’s true size
- [GV Wire](https://gvwire.com/2026/09/04/un-approves-resolution-in-support-of-map-that-shows-africas-true-size) — UN Approves Resolution in Support of Map That Shows Africa's True Size
- [The Star Kenya](https://the-star.co.ke/news/2026-09-04-africa-wins-un-backing-to-correct-the-map) — UN backs Africa’s push to redraw the world map
- [Noticias de Navarra](https://noticiasdenavarra.com/mundo/2026/09/04/onu-da-luz-verde-cambiar-11506465.html) — The UN Gives the Green Light to Changing the World Map to Reflect the True Size of Africa
- [infomoney.com.br](https://infomoney.com.br/mundo/onu-aprova-mapa-que-mostra-uma-africa-muito-maior-do-que-voce-aprendeu-na-escola) — UN Approves Map Showing a Much Bigger Africa than You Learned at School
- [Deia](https://deia.eus/mundo/2026/09/04/onu-da-luz-verde-cambiar-11506466.html) — The UN Gives the Green Light to Changing the World Map to Reflect the True Size of Africa
- [noticiasdegipuzkoa.eus](https://noticiasdegipuzkoa.eus/mundo/2026/09/04/onu-da-luz-verde-cambiar-11506467.html) — The UN Gives the Green Light to Changing the World Map to Reflect the True Size of Africa
- [noticiasdealava.eus](https://noticiasdealava.eus/mundo/2026/09/04/onu-da-luz-verde-cambiar-11506464.html) — The UN Gives the Green Light to Changing the World Map to Reflect the True Size of Africa
- [ORF.at News](https://orf.at/stories/3441183) — Representation of Africa: UN Vote for a More Realistic World Map
- [Al Jazeera](https://aljazeera.com/news/2026/9/4/un-votes-to-adopt-new-world-map-that-reflects-africas-true-size) — UN votes to adopt new world map that reflects Africa’s true size
- [ledauphine.com](https://ledauphine.com/societe/2026/09/04/l-onu-adopte-une-reforme-de-la-carte-du-monde-plus-fidele-a-la-realite) — Diplomacy. The United Nations Adopts a Reform of the Map of the World, More Faithful to Reality
- [estrepublicain.fr](https://estrepublicain.fr/societe/2026/09/04/l-onu-adopte-une-reforme-de-la-carte-du-monde-plus-fidele-a-la-realite) — Diplomacy. The United Nations Adopts a Reform of the Map of the World, More Faithful to Reality
- [bienpublic.com](https://bienpublic.com/societe/2026/09/04/l-onu-adopte-une-reforme-de-la-carte-du-monde-plus-fidele-a-la-realite) — Diplomacy. The United Nations Adopts a Reform of the Map of the World, More Faithful to Reality
- [republicain-lorrain.fr](https://republicain-lorrain.fr/societe/2026/09/04/l-onu-adopte-une-reforme-de-la-carte-du-monde-plus-fidele-a-la-realite) — Diplomacy. The United Nations Adopts a Reform of the Map of the World, More Faithful to Reality
- [leprogres.fr](https://leprogres.fr/societe/2026/09/04/l-onu-adopte-une-reforme-de-la-carte-du-monde-plus-fidele-a-la-realite) — Diplomacy. The United Nations Adopts a Reform of the Map of the World, More Faithful to Reality
- [vosgesmatin.fr](https://vosgesmatin.fr/societe/2026/09/04/l-onu-adopte-une-reforme-de-la-carte-du-monde-plus-fidele-a-la-realite) — Diplomacy. The United Nations Adopts a Reform of the Map of the World, More Faithful to Reality
- [lalsace.fr](https://lalsace.fr/societe/2026/09/04/l-onu-adopte-une-reforme-de-la-carte-du-monde-plus-fidele-a-la-realite) — Diplomacy. The United Nations Adopts a Reform of the Map of the World, More Faithful to Reality
- [lejsl.com](https://lejsl.com/societe/2026/09/04/l-onu-adopte-une-reforme-de-la-carte-du-monde-plus-fidele-a-la-realite) — Diplomacy. The United Nations Adopts a Reform of the Map of the World, More Faithful to Reality
- [Frankfurter Allgemeine](https://faz.net/aktuell/wissen/forschung-politik/un-vollversammlung-neue-weltkarte-soll-mercator-projektion-abloesen-201196573.html) — UN General Assembly: New World Map to Replace Mercator Projection
- [The Heritage Times](https://theheritagetimes.com/un-approves-resolution-supporting-map-that-shows-africas-true-size) — UN Approves Resolution Supporting Map That Shows Africa’s True Size
- [The Straits Times](https://straitstimes.com/world/un-adopts-new-world-map-showing-true-size-of-continents-only-us-votes-against-it) — UN adopts new world map showing true scale of continents; only US votes against it
- [Aktual24](https://aktual24.ro/onu-va-vota-adoptarea-unei-noi-harti-care-ar-face-lumea-noastra-sa-arate-foarte-diferit) — The UN Will Vote for the Adoption of a New Map that Would Make Our World Look Very Different.
- [Noticias Argentinas | Agencia de noticias](https://noticiasargentinas.com/internacionales/naciones-unidas-aprueba-la-adopcion-de-un-nuevo-mapa-mundial-que-refleja-el-tamano-real-de-africa_a6a9b169e932dd641a790eeb0) — United Nations Approves the Adoption of a New Global Map Reflecting the Real Size of Africa
- [The Express Tribune](https://tribune.com.pk/story/2627487/un-adopts-major-map-reform-to-show-true-scale-of-continents) — UN adopts major map reform to show true scale of continents
- [Portfolio](https://portfolio.hu/gazdasag/20260904/dontottek-vege-lehet-az-1569-ota-hasznalt-mercator-vetuletnek-860636) — It Has Been Decided: the Mercator Projection, Used Since 1569, May Be Over
- [glasistre.hr](https://glasistre.hr/svijet/2026/09/04/un-izglasao-rezoluciju-o-promjeni-karte-svijeta-1084116) — The UN Passed a Resolution on Changing the World Map
- [South China Morning Post](https://scmp.com/news/world/article/3366446/un-adopts-new-map-africa-bigger-north-america-and-europe-smaller) — UN adopts new map: Africa bigger, North America and Europe smaller
- [El Periódico](https://elperiodico.com/es/internacional/20260904/onu-adopta-nueva-cartografia-mundial-133967476) — UN Adopts New Global Cartography in Line with the Real Size of Continents
- [informacion.es](https://informacion.es/internacional/2026/09/04/onu-adopta-nueva-cartografia-mundial-133967495.html) — UN Adopts New Global Cartography in Line with the Real Size of Continents
- [laprovincia.es](https://laprovincia.es/mundo/2026/09/04/onu-adopta-nueva-cartografia-mundial-133967497.html) — UN Adopts New Global Cartography in Line with the Real Size of Continents
- [elcorreoweb.es](https://elcorreoweb.es/sociedad/2026/09/04/onu-adopta-nueva-cartografia-mundial-133967482.html) — UN Adopts New Global Cartography in Line with the Real Size of Continents
- [elcorreogallego.es](https://elcorreogallego.es/mundo/2026/09/04/onu-adopta-nueva-cartografia-mundial-133967472.html) — UN Adopts New Global Cartography in Line with the Real Size of Continents
- [TownFlex](https://townflex.com/un-votes-new-world-map-africa-size) — UN Votes to Adopt Equal Earth Map to Show Africa's Real Size
- [corren.se](https://corren.se/nyheter/utrikes/varlden/artikel/afrika-storre-och-usa-mindre-fn-godtar-ny-karta/rex4kgwl) — Africa Bigger and the USA Smaller – UN Accepts New Map
- [parismatch.com](https://parismatch.com/actu/international/lonu-veut-agrandir-lafrique-sur-les-cartes-les-etats-unis-sy-opposent-275225) — The UN Wants to Enlarge Africa on the Cards, the United States Opposes It
- [France24](https://france24.com/en/earth/20260904-un-ditches-mercator-map-to-adopt-more-accurate-one-reflecting-africa-s-true-size) — UN ditches Mercator map to adopt more accurate one reflecting Africa's true size
- [n-tv](https://n-tv.de/politik/UN-reformieren-Weltkarte-im-Sinne-Afrikas-id31271798.html) — USA to Be Reduced: UN Reform World Map - in the Sense of Africa
- [Noticias al Día y a la Hora | Últimas Noticias del día de hoy…](https://noticiasaldiayalahora.co/tecnologia/la-onu-respalda-la-propuesta-de-togo-para-acabar-con-el-plano-mercator) — The UN Supports Togo’s Proposal to End the Mercator Plan
- [The Objective | Periodismo ethos](https://theobjective.com/internacional/2026-09-04/onu-resolucion-mapa-fiel-tamano-continentes) — UN Adopts Resolution to Use a Map More Faithful to the Size of Continents
- [vienna.at](https://vienna.at/uno-stimmte-fuer-neue-weltkarten/10443494) — UN Decides New World Maps with Realistic Sizes
- [Jornal Expresso](https://expresso.pt/internacional/2026-09-04-corrigir-o-mapa-onu-aprova-adocao-de-novo-mapa-mundo-para-mostrar-dimensao-real-de-africa-b62b079d) — "To Fix the Map": UN Approves Adoption of New Map-World to Show Real Dimension of Africa
- [Hindustan Times](https://hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/africa-bigger-us-smaller-un-adopts-new-map-101788547170779.html) — Africa bigger, US smaller - UN adopts new map
- [elDiarioAR](https://eldiarioar.com/mundo/asamblea-general-onu-vota-favor-nuevo-mapamundi-refleja-tamano-real-africa_1_13488770.html) — UN General Assembly Votes in Favour of Using a New World Map that Reflects Africa’s Real Size
- [Liberation](https://liberation.fr/international/abandon-de-la-cartographie-mercator-les-cartes-ont-des-cadrages-des-methodes-des-defauts-20260904_VXHOYYHHLVBVNNZCDAHRBCZAVU) — Abandonment of Mercator Mapping: "Maps Have Grids, Methods, Defects"
- [De Morgen](https://demorgen.be/nieuws/gaat-de-mercatorprojectie-op-de-schop-vn-stemt-voor-wereldkaart-die-ware-grootte-van-afrika-beter-weergeeft~bd42f1db) — Will the Mercator Projection Be Overhauled? UN Votes for World Map that Better Shows Africa's True Size
- [newscentraltv.com](https://newscentraltv.com/un-approves-map-reflecting-true-africa-size) — UN Approves Map Reflecting True Africa Size
- [Joe.My.God.](https://joemygod.com/2026/09/un-votes-to-adopt-map-showing-nations-are-their-true-relative-sizes-only-united-states-voted-against) — UN Votes To Adopt Map Showing Nations At Their True Relative Sizes, Only The United States Voted Against It
- [TF1 INFO](https://tf1info.fr/international/les-etats-unis-la-russie-et-la-chine-plus-petits-l-afrique-plus-grande-la-france-change-sa-carte-du-monde-2462412.html) — The United States, Russia and China Smaller, Africa larger... France Changes Its Map of the World
- [Africa News](https://africanews.com/2025/08/15/au-backs-campaign-to-replace-distorted-mercator-map) — AU backs campaign to replace distorted Mercator map
- [berria.eus](https://berria.eus/mundua/afrika-den-bezala-irudikatzen-duen-proiekzioaren-alde-egin-du-nbek_2163099_102.html) — The UN Has Supported the Projection that Represents Africa as It Is
- [Tuko.co.ke - Kenya news.](https://tuko.co.ke/world/africa/638701-world-map-redrawn-significant-votes-adopt-africas-unique-proposal) — World map to change significantly as UN votes to adopt Africa's unique proposal
- [Aktuálně.cz](https://zpravy.aktualne.cz/zahranici/spravedlivy-svet-zacina-spravedlivou-mapou-osn-nahradi-mercatorovo-zobrazeni/r~aaa2921bfffd308bd442ae3a9888ff80) — "A Just World Begins with a Just map." The UN Wants to Replace the Mercator Projection
- [RTÉ](https://rte.ie/news/world/2026/0904/1590398-un-map-world) — UN adopts map reform to show true scale of continents
- [Premium Times Nigeria](https://premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/907493-un-votes-to-adopt-new-world-map-that-shows-true-size-of-africa.html) — UN votes to adopt new world map that shows true size of Africa
- [RTBF](https://rtbf.be/article/une-afrique-plus-grande-des-etats-unis-reduits-l-onu-opte-pour-une-cartographie-mondiale-plus-proche-de-la-realite-11780195) — A Larger Africa, a Smaller United States: UN Opts for Global Mapping, Closer to Reality
- [interez.sk](https://interez.sk/mapy-ktore-pouzivame-vznikli-v-16-storoci-a-zobrazuju-krajiny-zle-prva-krajina-ich-chce-v-ucebniciach-nahradit) — The Maps We Use Were Created in the 16th Century and Show Countries Incorrectly. UN Approves Proposal, Textbooks May Change
- [NOS](https://nos.nl/artikel/2629696-vn-stemt-voor-nieuwe-wereldkaart-met-grotere-weergave-van-afrika) — UN Votes for New World Map with Larger Representation of Africa
- [Firstpost News](https://firstpost.com/world/un-vote-replace-mercator-map-africa-size-distortion-14043174.html) — Greenland looks huge on your map. Africa is actually 14 times bigger
- [The Telegraph](https://telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/08/24/african-union-demands-accurate-world-map) — Redraw world map ‘to show greatness of Africa’, demand nations
- [WTVB](https://wtvbam.com/2026/09/04/un-approves-resolution-in-support-of-map-that-shows-africas-true-size) — UN approves resolution in support of map that shows Africa’s true size
- [Telegrafi](https://telegrafi.com/okb-ja-miratoi-harten-e-re-te-botes) — The UN Approved the New World Map
- [Sapo](https://pplware.sapo.pt/ciencia/onu-aprova-novo-mapa-do-mundo-o-desenho-que-usamos-ha-seculos-estava-errado) — UN Approves New Map of the World: Was the Design We Used for Centuries Wrong?
- [Stirile Antena 1 Observator](https://observatornews.ro/inedit/harta-lumii-se-schimba-dupa-aproape-500-de-ani-ce-prevede-rezolutia-adoptata-de-onu-665267.html) — The Map of the World Changes After Nearly 500 Years. What Does the UN Resolution Provide For?
- [3cat.cat](https://3cat.cat/3catinfo/lonu-vota-a-favor-de-canviar-el-mapamundi-per-una-versio-que-no-minimitzi-lafrica/noticia/3427209) — The UN Votes in Favor of Changing the World Map to a Version that Does Not Minimize Africa
- [India Today](https://indiatoday.in/world/story/un-united-nations-equal-earth-map-resolution-passes-africa-mercator-distortion-2987406-2026-09-04) — Africa is bigger than you think: UN votes to correct 'distorted' world map
- [El Universo](https://eluniverso.com/larevista/sociedad/onu-busca-mapas-del-mundo-mas-fieles-al-tamano-real-de-los-continentes-nota) — UN Looks for Maps of the World More Faithful to the Real Size of Continents
- [siol.net](https://siol.net/novice/svet/zn-z-veliko-vecino-podprli-nov-zemljevid-sveta-zda-edine-proti-700684) — UN Overwhelmingly Supports New World Map, US Alone Against
- [BBC News](https://bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce30vp55dnlo) — UN votes to adopt new world map to reflect Africa's true size
- [Sud Ouest](https://sudouest.fr/international/la-carte-du-monde-va-t-elle-bientot-changer-l-onu-va-voter-sur-l-adoption-d-une-nouvelle-cartographie-avec-la-veritable-taille-de-l-afrique-30482111.php) — Is the Map of the World Going to Change Soon? The UN Is Adopting a Major Reform of Global Cartography, with the True Size of Africa
- [Observador](https://observador.pt/2026/09/04/onu-vota-proposta-para-alterar-mapa-do-mundo-e-representar-africa-no-seu-tamanho-real) — UN Approves Proposal to Change World Map and Represent Africa in Its Real Size
- [Aftenposten](https://aftenposten.no/verden/i/9p0nQp/fn-gaar-inn-for-nytt-verdenskart-som-viser-afrikas-faktiske-stoerrelse) — UN Advocates New World Map Showing Africa's Actual Size
- [Aleph News](https://alephnews.ro/guvern/harta-lumii-se-schimba-onu-a-adoptat-o-rezolutie-pentru-ca-dimensiunile-tarilor-sa-fie-reprezentate-cat-mai-fidel-sua-singura-tara-care-a-votat-impotriva) — The Map of the World Is Changing: the UN Has Adopted a Resolution to Ensure that the Dimensions of the Countries Are Represented as Faithfully as Possible.
- [Eldiario.es](https://eldiario.es/internacional/asamblea-general-onu-vota-favor-nuevo-mapamundi-refleja-tamano-real-africa_1_13487401.html) — UN General Assembly Votes in Favour of Using a New World Map that Reflects Africa’s Real Size
- [Correio da Manhã](https://cmjornal.pt/mundo/detalhe/onu-aprova-alteracao-dos-mapas-mundiais-para-melhor-refletir-dimensao-de-africa) — UN Approves Change of World Maps to Better Reflect Africa's Dimension
- [NRC Handelsblad](https://nrc.nl/nieuws/2026/09/04/vn-vergadering-stemt-in-met-invoering-nieuwe-wereldkaart-die-afrika-wel-op-schaal-afbeeldt-a4935938) — UN Assembly Approves Introduction of New World Map that Depicts Africa to Scale
- [CNN Greece](https://cnn.gr/kosmos/story/550838/o-oie-kaleitai-na-psifisei-gia-tin-allagi-tou-pagkosmiou-xarti-ti-zitoyn-oi-afrikanikes-xores) — The UN Is Being Asked to Vote on Changing the World Map - What African Countries Are Demanding
- [The Hindu](https://thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/un-approves-resolution-in-support-of-mapthat-shows-africas-true-size/article71429647.ece) — U.N. approves resolution in support of map that shows Africa’s true size
- [The News](https://thenews.com.pk/latest/1414893-un-considers-major-world-map-change-to-show-africas-true-scale) — UN considers major world map change to show Africa’s true scale
- [El Pais](https://elpais.com/planeta-futuro/2026-09-04/la-onu-adopta-un-nuevo-mapa-de-africa-mas-ajustado-a-las-dimensiones-reales-en-una-resolucion-no-vinculante.html) — UN Adopts a New Map of Africa More Tailored to Real Dimensions, in a Non-Binding Resolution
- [Naftemporiki](https://naftemporiki.gr/kosmos/2157356/o-oie-yiothetei-simantiki-metarrythmisi-ton-charton-gia-na-apotyponetai-to-pragmatiko-megethos-ton-ipeiron) — UN Adopts Major Map Reform to Reflect True Size of Continents
- [CTV News](https://ctvnews.ca/world/article/un-votes-to-adopt-new-map-that-makes-our-world-look-very-different) — UN votes to adopt new map that makes our world look very different
- [dagelijksestandaard.nl](https://dagelijksestandaard.nl/nieuws/lidstaten-vn-willen-accuratere-wereldkaarten) — UN Member States Want 'More Accurate' World Maps
- [welingelichtekringen.nl](https://welingelichtekringen.nl/samenleving/lidstaten-vn-willen-accuratere-wereldkaarten) — UN Member States Want 'More Accurate' World Maps
- [Trouw](https://trouw.nl/buitenland/vn-stemmen-in-met-nieuwe-wereldkaart-die-ware-grootte-van-landen-weergeeft~b0aa457c) — UN Approves New World Map Showing True Size of Countries
- [news-pravda.com](https://news-pravda.com/world/2026/09/04/2566690.html) — US Casts Sole Vote Against UN Resolution Supporting Accurate World Map Projection
- [時事ドットコム](https://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng_agt?g=adnkronos&k=20260905KRONOS-202609121274411058_eng) — Africa, UN votes to move beyond Mercator map, distorts continent's dimensions - JIJI PRESSAfrica, UN votes to move beyond Mercator map, distorts continent's dimensions
- [t-online](https://t-online.de/leben/wissenschaft/id_101421088/un-abstimmung-togo-will-weltkarten-korrigieren-so-gross-ist-afrika.html) — Togo Calls for a New World Map – that's Behind It
- [Document](https://document.no/2026/09/04/fn-stemmer-over-nytt-verdenskart) — UN Votes on New World Map
- [albeu.com](https://albeu.com/english/un-reviews-a-new-world-map-to-show-africas-true-size/998166) — UN Reviews a New World Map to Show Africa’s True Size
- [Reformatorisch Dagblad](https://rd.nl/a/1161656-lidstaten-vn-willen-accuratere-wereldkaarten) — UN Member States Want ‘More Accurate’ World Maps
- [RPP](https://rpp.pe/mundo/actualidad/mapa-mundial-podria-cambiar-onu-votara-propuesta-que-mostraria-las-verdaderas-dimensiones-de-continentes-y-deje-de-lado-proyeccion-mercator-de-1569-noticia-1705584) — Could the 1569 World Map Change? UN Votes Proposed New Version that Reflects Real Dimensions
- [KRDO](https://krdo.com/news/2026/09/04/la-onu-votara-si-adoptar-un-nuevo-mapa-que-haria-que-nuestro-mundo-luciera-muy-diferente) — The UN Votes to Adopt a New Map that Makes Our World Look Very Different
- [Le Figaro](https://lefigaro.fr/international/la-france-soutient-une-reforme-de-la-cartographie-mondiale-plus-representative-notamment-pour-l-afrique-20260904) — France Supports More Representative Global Mapping Reform, Particularly for Africa
- [Aktuality.sk](https://aktuality.sk/clanok/R7I4Wqv/francuzsko-konci-s-mercatorom-na-mapach-sveta-podpori-afriku-pri-realistickom-zobrazeni-kontinentov) — France Ends Mercator on World Maps. Will Support Africa in Realistic Depiction of Continents
- [Unknown](https://dimokratia.gr/kosmos/740980/psifoforia-ston-oie-gia-tin-allagi-toy-pagkosmioy-charti) — Vote at the UN to Change the World Map!
- [Hospodárske Noviny](https://hnonline.sk/svet/96300649-osn-meni-mapu-sveta-skreslene-zobrazenie-nahradi-presnejsia-verzia-usa-boli-tvrdo-proti) — The UN Is Changing the World Map. The Distorted Representation Will Be Replaced by a More Accurate Version, the US Was Strongly Against It
- [dnevnik.rs](https://dnevnik.rs/vesti/svet/un-izglasale-novu-kartu-sveta-evo-sta-ce-ubuduce-izgledati-drugacije-164-drzave-bile-za-samo-jedna-protiv-2026-09-04) — UN ANNOUNCES NEW WORLD MAP Here's What Will Look Different in the Future! 164 STATES WERE IN FAVOR, ONLY ONE AGAINST
- [Telegraf – Najnovije vesti](https://telegraf.rs/vesti/svet/4390578-upravo-je-izglasana-nova-karta-sveta-najmocnija-drzava-jedina-je-bila-protiv) — A New Map of the World Has Just Been Voted: The Most Powerful State Was the only One Against It!
- [Life.ru](https://life.ru/p/ssha-edinstvennymi-vystupili-protiv-rezolyutsii-oon-o-realnyh-razmerah-afriki) — The U.S. Alone Opposed the UN Resolution on Africa's Real Size.
- [IOL Portugal](https://sol.iol.pt/internacional/noticias/afinal-o-mapa-mundi-que-conhecemos-esta-errado-onu-vota-para-o-corrigir/20260904/6a9ae9a70cf2b42132dc0249) — After All, Is the World Map We Know Wrong? UN Votes to Correct It
- [KVIA](https://kvia.com/news/noticias/cnn-spanish/2026/09/04/la-onu-votara-si-adoptar-un-nuevo-mapa-que-haria-que-nuestro-mundo-luciera-muy-diferente) — The UN Votes to Adopt a New Map that Makes Our World Look Very Different
- [Newsit.gr](https://newsit.gr/kosmos/oie-sto-trapezi-i-allagi-tou-pagkosmiou-xarti-giati-i-afriki-emfanizetai-mikroteri/4765686) — UN: Changing the World Map Is on the Table - Why Africa Appears Smaller
- [La Repubblica](https://repubblica.it/esteri/2026/09/04/news/onu_vota_per_adottare_mappa_che_rappresenti_meglio_africa_mercatore-425565213) — The UN Vote to Adopt a Map of the World that Best Represents Africa: Togo's Proposal
- [UN News](https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/09/1168284) — UN tells the world: Stop making Africa look small
- [franceinfo.fr](https://franceinfo.fr/monde/afrique/pourquoi-l-afrique-demande-t-elle-une-nouvelle-carte-du-monde_8176862.html) — Why Is Africa Asking for a New Map of the World?
- [Terra](https://terra.com.br/noticias/mundo/onu-aprova-resolucao-em-apoio-a-mapa-que-mostra-o-verdadeiro-tamanho-da-africa,9f2eb38c1d39e7d5d7643e1f4549a394p9cacqv1.html) — UN Adopts Resolution in Support of Map Showing True Size of Africa
- [CNN Brasil](https://cnnbrasil.com.br/internacional/onu-aprova-resolucao-para-adotar-novo-mapa-do-mundo-veja-diferencas) — UN Adopts Resolution to Adopt New Map of the World; See Differences
- [KEYT](https://keyt.com/news/national-world/cnn-world/2026/09/04/un-to-vote-on-adopting-new-map-that-would-make-our-world-look-very-different) — UN votes to adopt new map that makes our world look very different
- [IndexHR](https://index.hr/vijesti/clanak/un-danas-glasa-o-promjeni-karte-svijeta/2831018.aspx) — Africans Demand Change to World Map. UN Vote Today
- [sofokleousin.gr](https://sofokleousin.gr/epikairotita/diethni/oi-afrikanikes-xores-proothoun-psifisma-ston-oie-gia-tin-allagi-t) — African Countries Push UN Resolution to Change World Maps
- [pelop.gr](https://pelop.gr/xartis-mercator-afriki-oie-equal-earth) — Mercator Map: Why the UN Is Considering Change
- [sigmalive.com](https://sigmalive.com/news/international/1328001/ohe-psifisma-ghia-tin-apokatastasi-toy-praghmatikou-meghethoys-ton-kratwn) — UN: Resolution to Restore the Real Size of States
- [rtl.lu](https://today.rtl.lu/news/world/france-to-abandon-distorted-mercator-map-projection-minister-659170551) — France to abandon 'distorted' Mercator map projection: minister
- [DR](https://dr.dk/nyheder/kultur/vi-har-brugt-det-siden-1500-tallet-men-nu-skal-fn-tage-stilling-til-om-verdenskortet-skal-laves-om) — We've Been Using It Since the 16th Century, but Now the UN Has to Decide Whether to Redesign the World Map.
- [jurnalul.ro](https://jurnalul.ro/stiri/externe/vot-onu-schimbare-harta-lumii-miza-1043350.html) — A UN Vote Could Change the Map of the World.
- [Protothema](https://protothema.gr/world/article/1874046/allazei-o-pagosmios-hartis-ston-oie-psifisma-gia-tin-apokatastasi-tou-pragmatikou-megethous-ton-kraton) — The World Map Is Changing at the UN: Resolution to Restore the Real Size of States
- [IFLScience](https://iflscience.com/the-world-is-about-to-vote-on-whether-to-ditch-the-global-map-as-we-know-it-and-start-showing-countries-true-size-84556) — The World Is About To Vote On Whether To Ditch The Global Map As We Know It And Start Showing Countries’ True Size
- [Helsingin Sanomat](https://hs.fi/maailma/art-2000012251368.html) — Maps | African Countries Demand Their Continent Be Bigger on the World Map
- [El Economista](https://eleconomista.com.mx/internacionales/onu-aprueba-reemplazar-mapa-mercator-mostrar-tamano-real-africa-otros-paises-20260904-831941.html) — UN Approves Replacing Mercator's Map to Show the Real Size of Africa and Other Countries
- [Globo](https://oglobo.globo.com/mundo/epoca/noticia/2026/09/04/franca-se-une-a-africa-por-mapas-mundi-mais-representativos-e-abandona-projecao-usada-ha-seculos-entenda.ghtml) — France Joins Africa by More Representative World Maps and Abandons Projection Used for Centuries; Understand
- [Göteborgs-Posten](https://gp.se/nyheter/varlden/fn-ska-rosta-om-varldskarta-kan-bli-ny-standard.a2550055-8a2c-48bf-8528-307686a4c6ab) — UN to Vote on World Map – Could Become New Standard
- [Il Post](https://ilpost.it/2026/09/04/voto-onu-mappa-equal-earth-mercatore) — UN Votes to Adopt a Map that Better Represents Africa
- [star.gr](https://star.gr/eidiseis/kosmos/727121/pagkosmios-xarths-mercator-allagh-zhta-to-togko) — Resolution to Change the Mercator World Map, Due to Africa #StarGrNews
- [thechenabtimes.com](https://thechenabtimes.com/2026/09/04/un-assembly-votes-on-african-led-initiative-to-adopt-more-proportionate-world-maps) — UN Assembly Votes on African-Led Initiative to Adopt More Proportionate World Maps
- [La Presse](https://lapresse.ca/international/2026-09-04/l-afrique-veut-une-reforme-de-la-cartographie-mondiale-plus-representative.php) — Africa Wants a More Representative Global Mapping Reform
- [Iefimerida](https://iefimerida.gr/kosmos/irthe-psifisma-ston-oie-simera-gia-na-allaxei-episima-o-pagkosmios-hartis) — Resolution at the UN to Officially Change the World Map - With the Real Size of the States, the Before and After - iefimerida.gr
- [The Herald Scotland](https://heraldscotland.com/news/26521920.un-vote-replacing-map-one-showing-true-size-africa) — This could be the new world map as United Nations votes on historic change
- [TV9 Marathi](https://tv9marathi.com/international/un-vote-to-change-world-map-correcting-africas-true-size-representation-1749051.html) — Biggest News! The Entire Map of the World Will Change Today; Voting Will Take Place in the United Nations!
- [Typosthes](https://typosthes.gr/diethni/440927_o-hartis-poy-mathame-na-blepoyme-paramorfonei-tin-afriki-i-allagi-poy-proteinei-o) — The Map We've Learned to See Distorts Africa - The Change the UN Proposes
- [Framtida](https://framtida.no/2026/09/04/fn-skal-royste-over-nytt-verdskart) — UN to Vote on New World Map
- [LiFO](https://lifo.gr/now/world/o-oie-psifizei-gia-hartes-poy-deihnoyn-pio-sosta-megethos-ton-horon) — UN Votes for Maps that More Accurately Show the Size of Countries
- [Business Daily](https://businessdaily.gr/diethni/229844_i-gallia-proothei-nea-antikeimeniki-hartografisi-egkataleipei-ti-merkatoriki-proboli) — France in Favor of New, Objective World Mapping
- [dailymail.com](https://dailymail.com/news/article-16104645/world-map-you-know-completely-change.html) — Maps will change to show countries' true sizes under UN resolution
- [Gândul](https://gandul.ro/international/noua-harta-onu-dimensiune-reala-africa-20998715) — UN Vote for New Map Reproducing Africa's Real Size
- [Unknown](https://neakriti.gr/kosmos/2198040_oie-psifoforia-gia-tin-allagi-toy-harti-mercator-adikei-pragmatiko-megethos-tis) — UN: Vote to Change Mercator Map – “Does Not Do Justice” to the True Size of Africa
- [www.ertnews.gr](https://ertnews.gr/eidiseis/o-oie-tha-psifisei-gia-tin-yiothetisi-neou-pagkosmiou-xarti-pou-apeikonizei-tin-pragmatiki-klimaka-tis-afrikis) — The UN Will Vote on Adopting a New World Map Depicting the True Scale of Africa
- [portalanalitika.me](https://portalanalitika.me/clanak/clanak/afrika-trazi-promjenu-karte-svijeta-danas-glasanje-u-generalnoj-skupstini-un-a) — Africa Wants to Change the Map of the World: Today the Vote in the UN General Assembly
- [NewsBytes](https://newsbytesapp.com/news/world/un-considers-new-map-highlighting-africa-s-size/story) — UN to vote on adopting map showing Africa's true scale
- [avisendanmark.dk](https://avisendanmark.dk/udland/fn-stemmer-om-nyt-verdenskort-med-afrikas-sande-stoerrelse) — UN Votes on New World Map Showing Africa's True Size
- [BT](https://bt.dk/udland/fn-stemmer-om-nyt-verdenskort-med-afrikas-sande-stoerrelse) — UN Votes on New World Map Showing Africa's True Size
- [koutipandoras.gr](https://koutipandoras.gr/article/oie-allazei-o-pagkosmios-evrokentrikos-chartis-gia-na-apotypothei-to-pragmatiko-megethos-tis-afrikis) — UN: Global Eurocentric Map Changes to Capture Africa's True Size | Pandora's Box
- [GB News](https://gbnews.com/science/un-new-world-map-mercator-britain-africa) — UN set to vote to scrap century-old world map and 'shrink' Britain to combat 'Western biases'
- [Agi.it](https://agi.it/estero/news/2026-09-04/onu-mappa-mercatore-38872822) — The UN Will Vote to Replace the Map of the World of Marketer
- [Le Monde](https://lemonde.fr/international/article/2026/09/04/la-france-plaide-pour-une-representation-cartographique-du-monde-plus-equitable_6765749_3210.html) — France Calls for More Equitable Map Representation of the World
- [spotmedia.ro](https://spotmedia.ro/stiri/magazin-si-stiinta/harta-lumii-cu-care-am-crescut-ar-putea-deveni-istorie-onu-voteaza-o-schimbare-majora-dupa-aproape-cinci-secole) — The Map of the World I Grew up with Could Become History. UN Votes for a Major Change After Nearly Five Centuries
- [berlingske.dk](https://berlingske.dk/internationalt/fn-skal-stemme-om-nyt-verdenskort-skal-vise-afrikas-faktiske-stoerrelse) — UN to Vote on New World Map: Must Show Africa's Actual Size
- [Newsweek](https://newsweek.com/un-vote-change-world-map-versions-compare-12403590) — UN votes on major world map change: Different versions compared
- [newsbv.ro](https://newsbv.ro/un-vot-onu-ar-putea-schimba-harta-lumii) — A UN Vote Could Change the Map of the World - News Brasov - News Brasov
- [Večernji list](https://vecernji.hr/vijesti/un-mijenja-izgled-karte-svijeta-evo-kako-bi-mogla-izgledati-u-buducnosti-1992299) — Is the UN Changing the Look of the World Map? Here's What It Could Look Like in the Future
- [ElNacional.cat](https://elnacional.cat/ca/internacional/batalla-africana-canviar-mapa-mon_1690474_102.html) — The African Battle to Change the Map of the World
- [REALITATEA.NET](https://realitatea.net/stiri/actualitate/onu-voteaza-o-rezolutie-pentru-schimbarea-hartii-lumii-africa-ar-urma-sa-apara-la-dimensiunea-sa-reala-smtwui) — The UN Is Voting for a Resolution to Change the Map of the World. Africa Would Appear to Its Real Size
- [La Vanguardia](https://lavanguardia.com/internacional/20260904/11627035/onu-vota-cambiar-mapamundi-reflejar-verdadero-tamano-africa.html) — UN Votes Change World Map to Reflect Africa’s Real Size · Global Voices
- [Avaz.ba](https://avaz.ba/vijesti/globus/1070026/afrika-kakvu-dosad-nismo-gledali-un-glasa-o-promjeni-karte-svijeta) — Africa as We've Never Seen It Before: UN Votes to Change the World Map
- [Documento](https://documentonews.gr/article/allazei-o-pagkomios-chartis-giati-o-oie-exetazei-nea-apeikonisi) — Is the World Map Changing? Why the UN Is Considering a New Visualization
- [in.gr](https://in.gr/2026/09/04/world/psifisma-gia-neo-pagkosmio-xarti-i-afriki-i-groilandia-kai-to-megalytero-psema-aionon-sti-geografia) — Resolution for a New World Map: Africa, Greenland and the "Biggest Lie" in Geography for Centuries
- [realitatea.md](https://realitatea.md/onu-ar-putea-schimba-harta-lumii-africa-ar-urma-sa-fie-reprezentata-la-dimensiunea-sa-reala) — The UN Could Change the Map of the World: Africa Would Be Represented in Its Real Size
- [rmf24.pl](https://rmf24.pl/fakty/swiat/news-koniec-mapy-jaka-znamy-dzis-kluczowe-glosowanie,nIdn,1016385) — The End of the Map as We Know It? Today's Crucial Vote
- [antena3.ro](https://antena3.ro/externe/mapamond/un-vot-onu-ar-putea-schimba-harta-lumii-considerata-a-fi-prea-colonialista-decizia-ar-putea-modifica-programele-scolare-de-pe-glob-802018.html) — A UN Vote Could Change the World Map, Considered Too "colonialist." The Decision Could Change School Curricula Around the World
- [TV9 Hindi](https://tv9hindi.com/world/why-africa-looks-small-on-world-map-actually-3-times-larger-than-europe-un-to-change-map-3897948.html) — Why Does Africa Appear Small on the World Map? It Is Actually Three Times Larger than Europe. The UN Is About to Decide on Changing the Map.
- [flash.gr](https://flash.gr/mas-emathan-lathos-ton-kosmo-o-oie-allazei-ton-charti-gia-na-fanei-to-pragmatiko-megethos-tis-afrikis-1079737) — We Were Taught the World Wrong: The UN Changes the Map to Show the True Size of Africa
- [www.economica.net](https://economica.net/se-schimba-harta-lumii-decizie-istorica-la-onu_973657.html) — The Map of the World Is Changing.
- [Klix](https://klix.ba/vijesti/svijet/kolika-je-zapravo-afrika-un-glasa-o-ukidanju-karte-koja-je-vijekovima-umanjivala-ovaj-kontinent/260904015) — How Big Is Africa? The UN Votes to Abolish the Map that Has Diminished This Continent for Centuries
- [The Podium Media](https://thepodiummedia.com/un-to-vote-on-adopting-new-world-map-that-shows-africas-true-scale) — UN to Vote on Adopting New World Map that Shows Africa’s True Scale
- [reader.gr](https://reader.gr/kosmos/telos-ston-paradosiako-harti-poy-xerame-giati-o-oie-thelei-na-ton-allaxei-poies-hores-tha-megalosoyn/660136) — End to the Traditional Map We Knew: Why the UN Wants to Change It - Which Countries Will “Grow”
- [The Independent](https://independent.co.uk/news/world/mercator-map-change-un-africa-b3044531.html) — UN to vote on adopting new world map that shows true size of all countries
- [The Independent (US)](https://the-independent.com/news/world/mercator-map-change-un-africa-b3044531.html) — UN to vote on adopting new world map that shows true size of all countries
- [Stirile Pro TV](https://stirileprotv.ro/stiri/international/harta-lumii-cu-care-am-crescut-ar-putea-deveni-istorie-onu-voteaza-o-schimbare-majora-dupa-aproape-cinci-secole.html) — The Map of the World I Grew up with Could Become History. UN Votes for a Major Change After Nearly Five Centuries
- [Reuters](https://reuters.com/world/africa/un-approves-resolution-support-map-that-shows-africas-true-size-2026-09-04) — UN approves resolution in support of map that shows Africa's true size

## Questions

**What is the Mercator projection and why is it being criticised?**

The Mercator projection is a 1569 map-making technique widely used for navigation. Critics argue it distorts the relative sizes of countries, making landmasses further from the equator, like Africa, appear smaller than they are. The UN resolution aims to correct these distortions.

**How many countries voted for the new map resolution?**

The UN General Assembly voted to adopt the new world map resolution with 164 member states voting in favour. Six member states abstained from the vote, and the United States was the only country to vote against it.

**What is the proposed alternative to the Mercator projection?**

The resolution supports the adoption of more accurate map projections, such as the Equal Earth projection. This alternative aims to depict the relative surface areas of the world's regions more accurately, showing continents like Africa at their true scale.

---

MediaBias News — https://mediabias.news. Reproduced from https://mediabias.news/politics/un-general-assembly-votes-to-adopt-new-world-map. Please cite as: MediaBias News, "UN General Assembly votes to adopt new world map", https://mediabias.news/politics/un-general-assembly-votes-to-adopt-new-world-map