The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to transition from the age-old Mercator global map to a more precise representation of countries’ actual sizes. The resolution, put forth by African nations, aims to combat the perception of Africa as being marginalized.
Togo spearheaded this effort as part of the African Union’s campaign to reduce the use of the Mercator map, which distorts the sizes of land masses by enlarging those closer to the poles. This distortion leads to misconceptions such as Greenland appearing similar in size to Africa, despite Africa being approximately 14 times larger.
“A just world begins with an equitable map,” stated Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey in advance of the vote. The resolution endorses the Equal Earth projection, which offers a more accurate depiction of continent sizes.
Although not legally binding, the resolution does not challenge the use of the Mercator projection for sea and air navigation, for which it remains suitable, as per the Togolese ministry.
The resolution received overwhelming support in the UN General Assembly, with 164 countries voting in favor, one against, and six abstentions. The United States, the sole dissenting vote, criticized the resolution for advancing an ideological agenda and diverting attention from genuine global 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 other nations by making this change in classrooms worldwide.
In the coming months, Togo plans to rally African Union members and allies from various regions to encourage broader adoption of the Equal Earth projection. Dussey highlighted the necessity of engaging with mapping companies, GPS providers, and other location-based technology firms in this initiative.
Furthermore, Dussey tied the map transition campaign to broader African initiatives aimed at addressing colonial-era legacies, clarifying that it is not an attack on any specific civilization. He emphasized that the Mercator map’s prevalence stems from historical colonization and underscored the evolving nature of Africa and the world at large.