The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to transition from the traditional Mercator global map, created in the 16th century, towards a more accurate representation of countries’ actual sizes. This move, proposed by African nations, aims to combat the misconception that Africa is marginalized.
Togo spearheaded this initiative as part of the African Union’s campaign to reduce the use of the Mercator map, which distorts the proportions of landmasses by magnifying regions closer to the poles. For instance, the Mercator projection depicts Greenland as 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 endorses the Equal Earth projection, which provides a more precise representation of continent sizes.
Although the resolution is not obligatory, the Togolese ministry clarified that it does not challenge the use of the Mercator projection for maritime and aerial navigation, where it remains suitable. The UN General Assembly approved the resolution with a majority vote of 164 to one, with six abstentions. The United States was the sole dissenting vote, citing concerns about promoting ideological agendas.
Togo is taking proactive steps to implement changes in school curriculum materials by the end of the year, aiming to be the first country to adopt updated geography books. Dussey expressed the intention to advocate for other nations, schools, international bodies, and technology firms to transition away from the outdated Mercator projection towards the Equal Earth projection, which offers a more accurate depiction of the world.
Dussey plans to convene with African Union members and supporters from various regions in the coming months to strategize on broader adoption. He emphasized that the campaign is part of broader African initiatives to address colonial-era legacies, clarifying that it is not a critique of any specific civilization.
“The world is evolving, and Africa is evolving along with it,” Dussey concluded.