The United Nations made a significant decision on Friday to move away from the outdated Mercator global map from the 16th century. This change aims to provide a more accurate representation of countries’ actual sizes, addressing the misconception that Africa is less significant. Togo spearheaded this movement as part of the African Union’s initiative to reduce the use of the Mercator map, known for distorting landmass sizes by exaggerating those closer to the poles. This distortion makes Greenland appear 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 endorsed the Equal Earth projection, known for its more precise depiction of continents’ sizes. While 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.
With a vote of 164 to one and six abstentions, the resolution passed in the UN General Assembly. The United States stood as the sole dissenting vote, arguing that the resolution propagated an ideological agenda and diverted attention from genuine international issues.
Togo is taking proactive steps to amend its school geography materials by the end of the year, becoming the first country to do so. Dussey expressed the country’s commitment to lead by example and urged other nations to follow suit. Togo intends to advocate for the adoption of the Equal Earth projection in educational materials, urging governments, schools, international organizations, and technology companies to transition away from the outdated Mercator projection.
Dussey outlined plans to engage with African Union member states and global supporters in the coming months to encourage broader adoption of the Equal Earth projection. He emphasized the need for discussions with companies operating mapping, GPS, and location-based technologies to facilitate this transition. Dussey linked this map adoption campaign to broader African initiatives aimed at addressing colonial-era legacies, emphasizing that it is not an attack on any specific civilization.
In conclusion, the move away from the Mercator map signifies a shift towards more accurate and equitable representations of the world’s geography, reflecting evolving perspectives and acknowledging Africa’s true significance.
