The United Nations voted on Friday to transition from the outdated 16th-century Mercator global map to a more accurate representation of countries’ actual sizes. This initiative, led by Togo, aims to combat the perception that Africa is marginalized by the current map projection.
The Mercator map distorts the relative sizes of land masses, making countries closer to the poles appear larger than they are. For example, it portrays Greenland as roughly the same size as Africa, even though Africa is approximately 14 times larger.
Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey emphasized the importance of using a fair map, stating that a fair world starts with an accurate representation of countries’ sizes. The resolution supports the Equal Earth projection, which provides a more precise depiction of continents’ sizes.
While the resolution is not legally binding, it does not challenge the use of the Mercator projection for maritime and aerial navigation, for which it remains suitable. The resolution was approved by the UN General Assembly with 164 votes in favor, one against, and six abstentions.
The United States was the sole country to oppose the resolution, citing concerns that it promoted an ideological agenda and diverted attention from significant international issues.
Togo plans to update its school geography materials by the end of the year, becoming the first country to make this change. Dussey expressed the intention to set an example for other nations by transitioning away from the Mercator projection in educational settings.
Togo aims to encourage governments, schools, international organizations, and technology companies to shift from the outdated Mercator projection to the more accurate Equal Earth projection. Dussey highlighted that Equal Earth offers the best representation of the world’s geography.
In the coming months, Togo will engage with African Union members and supporters from various regions to facilitate broader adoption of the Equal Earth projection. This campaign is part of broader African efforts to address colonial legacies and is not intended as an attack on any specific civilization.
Dussey emphasized that the campaign reflects a changing world and evolving perspectives, particularly in Africa.