The United Nations General Assembly adopted a draft resolution on September 4, 2026, titled “Correct the Map: Rebalancing global cartographic representation and promoting equitable representation of the world’s regions, particularly Africa.” This significant resolution, adopted on September 4, 2026, aims to phase out the Mercator projection, which has long been criticized for distorting the size of landmasses, particularly those far from the equator. Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey led the campaign advocating for this change, stating, "A fair world begins with a fair map."
Mr. Dussey emphasized the profound impact of cartography, adding that "Maps shape our understanding of the world." The resolution seeks to address perceived historical biases in global cartography, with a specific focus on rebalancing the representation of continents, notably Africa. The initiative shows a growing international recognition of the power of geographical representation in shaping global perspectives and promoting a more equitable understanding of the world.
The Problem with Mercator
The United Nations resolution specifically advocates for the global phasing out of the 1569 Mercator projection. This historical cartographic method, widely used for centuries, is to be replaced by the Equal Earth projection, which was developed in 2018. The shift aims to correct visual inaccuracies that have long been present in world maps. The resolution called on the world to phase out the 1569 Mercator projection in favour of the Equal Earth projection, developed in 2018, marking a significant step towards a more accurate global cartography.
The Mercator projection is known for significantly distorting the relative sizes of landmasses, particularly those further from the equator. For example, on maps utilizing the Mercator projection, the continent of Africa appears to be approximately 14 times larger than Greenland, despite Greenland being considerably smaller in actual land area. This visual discrepancy has been a central point of criticism regarding the Mercator projection's ability to accurately represent global geography. Critics argue that such distortions can perpetuate misconceptions about the true proportions and significance of different regions of the world.
A Global Push for Change
Togo introduced the initiative at the United Nations General Assembly on behalf of the 54-member African Union, advocating for a global shift in cartographic representation. This push for change follows significant preparatory work within the African continent, noting a concerted effort by African nations to champion this cause on the international stage.
The Assembly of the African Union, during its 39th Ordinary Session in February 2026, formally adopted the Equal Earth projection for its own cartographic standards. During the session, the Assembly also encouraged its member states to revise their national curricula to reflect this new cartographic standard. The move signals a concerted effort to promote more accurate and equitable geographical education across the continent. This proactive stance by the African Union demonstrates a commitment to fostering a more balanced worldview among its citizens from an early age.
Togo has announced its intention to be the first nation to implement these changes, stating it will revise its own geography textbooks within the current year. This action by Togo shows a commitment to leading by example in the global effort to phase out the Mercator projection and adopt more accurate representations of the world. The country's swift move to update its educational materials reflects the urgency and importance placed on this cartographic reform.
International Reactions and Support
The resolution passed with 164 votes in favor, demonstrating broad international support for the initiative. The United States, however, voted against the measure, indicating a divergence in opinion on the necessity or implementation of such a change. This development follows previous efforts by other entities to address cartographic representation. For instance, Boston Public Schools in the United States had already adopted the Equal Earth projection as part of an initiative to “decolonise the curriculum,” according to their public statements. The school district implemented the change to move away from the Mercator projection’s distortions, particularly regarding the relative sizes of continents, prior to the UN resolution.
Shaping a Fairer Worldview
The resolution passed by the UN General Assembly is non-binding and does not impose a ban on the Mercator projection. Instead, it encourages governments, educational institutions, media organizations, and technology companies to adopt equal-area maps for global representation. This approach seeks to foster a voluntary shift towards more accurate cartography rather than mandating it. Separately, France has announced its intention to abandon the Mercator projection in favor of representations that more accurately depict surface areas, aligning with the spirit of the UN resolution. During the vote, six nations abstained: Estonia, Georgia, Lithuania, Moldova, Serbia, and Ukraine. Their abstention suggests a cautious or neutral stance on the resolution, possibly due to geopolitical considerations or internal cartographic policies.
The adoption of this resolution represents a significant symbolic victory for advocates of cartographic reform. It notes a global recognition of the subtle yet profound influence maps have on our perception of the world and its inhabitants. By promoting the Equal Earth projection, the UN General Assembly aims to encourage a more accurate and equitable understanding of global geography, fostering a worldview that better reflects the true proportions and relationships of the world’s continents and countries.
