Uncama

Uncama, also sometimes stylized as UNCaMA, refers to the United Nations Conference on the Standardization of Geographical Names. It is a conference convened periodically by the United Nations with the aim of standardizing geographical names (toponyms) across different languages and countries. The overarching goal is to reduce ambiguity and confusion arising from variations in naming conventions, transliteration, and translation.

The conferences provide a platform for experts from various nations to discuss and address issues related to geographical name standardization. These issues include:

• National Standardization: Promoting the development and implementation of national geographical names authorities and policies.
• International Cooperation: Facilitating collaboration among countries to resolve discrepancies in transboundary toponyms.
• Exonyms and Endonyms: Discussing the use of exonyms (names used by people outside the region) versus endonyms (names used by people within the region).
• Toponymic Data: Promoting the development and sharing of standardized toponymic databases.
• Romanization and Transliteration: Establishing guidelines for converting geographical names from non-Roman scripts to Roman scripts.
• Names of Undersea Features: Standardizing the naming of geographical features located underwater.

Recommendations and resolutions from UNCAMA conferences are not legally binding but serve as guidelines for national governments and international organizations to improve geographical name management and communication. The United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names (UNGEGN) plays a crucial role in preparing for and implementing the decisions made at UNCAMA conferences. UNGEGN continues the work between conferences and supports member states in their national standardization efforts.