The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to transition from the outdated Mercator global map, which distorts the true size of countries, to a more accurate representation. The move, spearheaded by Togo and supported by African nations, aims to address the misperception of Africa as a peripheral continent.
The Mercator map, known for exaggerating land masses closer to the poles, presents a misleading picture where Greenland appears comparable 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, “A fair world begins with a fair map.”
The resolution advocates for the Equal Earth projection, a mapping method that provides a more precise depiction of continents’ sizes. While the resolution is not legally binding, it does not challenge the Mercator projection’s suitability for maritime and aerial navigation.
The UN General Assembly overwhelmingly approved the resolution with 164 votes in favor, one against (the United States), and six abstentions. The U.S. criticized the resolution as promoting an ideological agenda and diverting attention from more pressing international issues.
Togo is taking proactive steps by planning to update its school geography materials by the year’s end, setting an example for other countries. The country aims to encourage governments, schools, international organizations, and technology companies to shift away from the outdated Mercator projection in favor of the more accurate Equal Earth projection.
Dussey highlighted the importance of broader adoption of the Equal Earth projection and announced plans to engage with African Union members and global supporters to facilitate this transition. He emphasized that the campaign is part of broader African initiatives to address colonial legacies and stressed that it is not an attack on any civilization.
The shift from the Mercator map reflects a changing world and underscores Africa’s evolving position in global affairs.