Japan seeks change to new UN world map over Russia 'misconception'
Japan has formally protested the UN's adoption of the 'Equal Earth' world map, claiming it incorrectly depicts the disputed Kuril islands as Russian territory. The Japanese government argues the map creates a misconception regarding their sovereign territory.
Why it matters
Cartographic disputes often reflect deeper geopolitical tensions and territorial claims between nations.
Japan was among the 164 UN members who voted in favour of the new Equal Earth map. Illustration: equal-earth.com Japan was among the 164 UN members who voted in favour of the new Equal Earth map. Illustration: equal-earth.com Japan Japan seeks change to new UN world map over Russia 'misconception' The new ‘true-scale’ map shrinks Europe and North America while enlarging Africa – and depicts the disputed Kuril islands as ruled by Moscow
Prefer the Guardian on Google Japan has asked for the revision of a new world map adopted by the UN because it said it made the disputed Kuril islands appear to belong to Russia .
The UN general assembly voted on Friday to adopt the new map, which makes the African continent larger while also shrinking North America and Europe , drawing condemnation from the US.
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