The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to move away from the traditional Mercator global map, which dates back to the 16th century, in favor of a more accurate representation of countries’ actual sizes. This resolution, spearheaded by African nations, aims to address the misconception that Africa is marginalized.
Togo took the lead in advancing this initiative to support the African Union’s campaign against the Mercator map, known for distorting the relative sizes of land masses by exaggerating those closer to the poles. For example, it falsely portrays Greenland as similar in size to Africa, even though Africa is approximately 14 times larger.
“A just world starts with an equitable map,” remarked Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey in anticipation of the UN vote.
The resolution endorses the Equal Earth projection, a more precise method of displaying the continents’ sizes. It is non-binding and does not challenge the Mercator projection’s suitability for maritime and aerial navigation.
The UN General Assembly approved the resolution with 164 votes in favor, one against (the United States), and six abstentions. The U.S. opposed the resolution, arguing that it advanced an ideological agenda and diverted attention from genuine international issues.
Togo aims to update its school geography materials by the year’s end, becoming the first country to do so. Dussey emphasized the importance of setting an example for all nations by adopting accurate maps in educational settings.
Furthermore, Togo plans to advocate for the abandonment of the outdated Mercator projection among governments, educational institutions, international bodies, and technology firms. Dussey emphasized that Equal Earth provides the most accurate depiction of the world.
In the coming months, Togo will convene with African Union members and supporters from other regions to devise strategies for broader adoption of accurate map projections. Dussey emphasized the need to involve mapping, GPS, and location-based technology companies in these discussions.
Dussey framed the map transition as part of Africa’s broader efforts to address colonial legacies, clarifying that it is not an attack on any specific civilization. He highlighted that the persistence of the Mercator map’s usage stems from historical colonization, emphasizing that both the world and Africa are evolving.