Japan demands correction to Equal Earth map over depiction of disputed islands
Tokyo claims the map uses the same color for the islands, which Japan calls the Northern Territories, as it does for Russian territory.
The Japanese government has demanded that an Equal Earth world map on a website be corrected, citing the use of the same color for Russian territory as it does for four islands disputed between Japan and Russia. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced this demand during a news conference, emphasizing the need to prevent incorrect perceptions of Japan's territories and geographical names.
Kihara explained that the map's depiction contradicts Japan's position, stating that the islands, known in Japan as the Northern Territories, are effectively under Russian control despite being claimed by Japan. The map's description acknowledges Russia's control of the islands while also noting Japan's claim. Japan asserts that the islands are part of its inherent territory.
The Equal Earth map projection accurately represents the size of each continent, and earlier this month, the U.N. General Assembly adopted a resolution advocating for the use of such projections. However, the news conference highlighted that the U.N. resolution does not endorse the use of specific maps adhering to this projection. Kihara reiterated that Japan's stance on the map issue is separate from the U.N. resolution.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
