The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to transition from the outdated Mercator global map, created in the 16th century, to a more accurate representation of countries’ actual sizes. This resolution, championed by African nations, aims to combat the misconception that Africa is on the periphery.
Togo spearheaded this movement as part of the African Union’s initiative to reduce the use of the Mercator map, which distorts the proportions of landmasses by exaggerating those closer to the poles. This distortion results in Greenland appearing 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,” in an interview with Reuters before the vote. The resolution endorses the Equal Earth projection, which provides a more accurate depiction of continent sizes.
Although the resolution is not legally binding, the Togolese ministry clarified that it does not challenge the Mercator projection’s suitability for maritime and aerial navigation. The Equal Earth projection was favored in the UN General Assembly, with 164 countries voting in favor, one against (the United States), and six abstentions.
Togo plans to update its school geography materials by the year’s end, becoming the first country to do so. Dussey expressed the intention to set an example for other nations by transitioning away from the Mercator projection in classrooms. The country aims to encourage governments, schools, international organizations, and technology firms to adopt the Equal Earth projection for a more accurate representation of the world.
Dussey highlighted the importance of promoting a more accurate map projection in line with broader African initiatives to address colonial legacies, emphasizing that it is not an attack on any specific civilization. He emphasized that the world and Africa are evolving, necessitating a shift towards more accurate and inclusive representations.
