Impact of Cartography on International Relations

The factors affecting international cooperation in cartography and the role of the cartographer are discussed. Because the problems of charting involve the sea and shore, which encompass much of the earth’s surface, and because they possess characteristics common to the maritime world, nautical cartography has been chosen to illustrate numerous areas of activity that require international cooperation. Organizations that are typically international in scope are identified; also, examples of cartography that are applied to products designed and produced for international uses are described. Of particular concern are the legal implications associated with charting coastal areas and the high seas. The paramount conclusion is that cartographers should be skilled in 1 ) maintaining high accuracy standards, 2) keeping the navigator fully informed of changes vital to safety, and 3) assisting military plans and operations experts, navigators, maritime lawyers, diplomats, etc., with the assembly and presentation of information.