The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to move away from the outdated Mercator global map in favor of a more accurate representation of countries’ true sizes. This resolution, led by Togo and supported by African states, aims to combat the misconception that Africa is marginalized on the current map.
The Mercator map, known for distorting the relative sizes of land masses by exaggerating those closer to the poles, misleadingly portrays Greenland as similar in size to Africa, despite Africa being approximately 14 times larger. Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey emphasized the importance of a fair map, stating that a fair world begins with an accurate representation of countries.
The resolution endorses the Equal Earth projection, which provides a more precise depiction of continent sizes. While the resolution is not legally binding, it does not challenge the use of the Mercator projection for maritime and aerial navigation, where it remains suitable.
With a vote of 164 to one, and six abstentions, the resolution was passed in the UN General Assembly. The United States stood as the sole dissenting vote, arguing that the resolution pushes an ideological agenda and diverts attention from pressing international issues.
Togo plans to update its school geography materials by the end of the year, becoming the first country to do so. Dussey expressed a desire to set an example for other nations by transitioning away from the Mercator projection. He emphasized the need for broader adoption of the Equal Earth projection, citing it as offering the most accurate representation of the world.
In the coming months, Togo intends to collaborate with African Union members and supporters from various regions to promote the widespread adoption of the new map. Dussey stressed the importance of engaging with companies involved in mapping, GPS, and location-based technologies in this initiative.
While advocating for the adoption of the new map, Dussey connected this effort to broader African initiatives aimed at addressing colonial legacies, clarifying that it is not an attack on any specific civilization. He highlighted that the world and Africa are evolving, emphasizing the need for updated and accurate representations on maps.