The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to move away from the outdated Mercator global map, which distorts the true size of countries. This resolution, led by African nations, aims to address the perception that Africa is marginalized due to the map’s inaccuracies.
Togo spearheaded the initiative to support the African Union’s campaign against the Mercator map, known for exaggerating land masses near the poles. For example, it portrays Greenland as almost equal in size to Africa, despite Africa being substantially 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 geography. The resolution advocates for the Equal Earth projection, which provides a more realistic depiction of continent sizes.
While the resolution is not legally binding, it does not challenge the Mercator projection’s suitability for maritime and aerial navigation. The United Nations General Assembly passed the resolution with overwhelming support, with 164 in favor, one against (the United States), and six abstentions.
Togo is taking proactive steps to update its school geography materials by the end of the year, becoming the first country to do so. Dussey expressed the intention to set an example for other nations by transitioning away from the Mercator map in educational settings.
In addition to changing its own maps, Togo aims to encourage other governments, schools, international organizations, and technology companies to adopt the Equal Earth projection. Dussey believes that this shift will offer a more accurate and fair representation of the world.
Looking ahead, Togo plans to engage with African Union members and global partners to promote wider adoption of the new map projection. Dussey emphasized the need to involve companies specializing in mapping, GPS, and location-based technologies in these discussions.
The campaign to embrace more accurate mapping is part of broader African initiatives to address colonial legacies and promote positive change. Dussey clarified that this movement is not an attack on any specific civilization but a necessary evolution reflecting the changing world and Africa’s role in it.
