The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to shift from the traditional Mercator global map, dating back to the 16th century, to a more accurate representation of countries’ actual sizes. This resolution was championed by African nations to combat the misconception that Africa is on the periphery.
Togo spearheaded the movement to support the African Union’s initiative to reduce the use of the Mercator map, known for distorting the relative sizes of land masses by magnifying those closer to the poles. This distortion results in Greenland appearing similar in size to Africa, despite Africa being approximately 14 times larger.
“A fair world starts with an equitable map,” stated Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey in advance of the vote. The resolution endorses the Equal Earth projection, which provides a more precise depiction of continent sizes.
Although not legally binding, the resolution does not challenge the Mercator projection’s suitability for maritime and aerial navigation, as confirmed by the Togolese ministry.
The resolution overwhelmingly passed in the UN General Assembly with 164 votes in favor, one against (from the United States), and six abstentions. The U.S. opposed the resolution, citing concerns about promoting an ideological agenda and diverting attention from pressing international issues.
Togo aims to update its school geography materials by the year’s end, becoming the first nation to do so. Dussey expressed the need for this change to set an example for all countries globally.
Furthermore, Togo plans to advocate for a shift away from the Mercator projection among governments, schools, international bodies, and tech firms. Dussey emphasized that the Equal Earth projection offers 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 encourage broader adoption of the Equal Earth projection. Dussey stressed the importance of involving mapping, GPS, and location-based technology companies in discussions about the transition.
Dussey connected this initiative to broader African endeavors to address colonial legacies, clarifying that it is not an attack on any specific civilization. He highlighted the Mercator map’s prevalence as a legacy of colonization and emphasized that Africa, like the rest of the world, is evolving.
