Introduction 

The Berlin Conference stands as one of the most significant events in Africa’s history. It was convened from November 15, 1884, to February 26, 1885, under the initiative of German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. While the goals of this conference have long been a subject of historical debate, it is now clear that its main objective was the systematic division of Africa and the permanent establishment of colonization. February 26, 2025, marks the 140th anniversary of the end of this conference. This is an opportunity to reflect once again on the current consequences of this historic meeting, whose effects are still felt across the continent today.

Context 

It all began in the mid-19th-century with the discovery of immense resources in Africa, fuelling the ambitions of European powers. This context of competition and tensions led to the influx of explorers, missionaries, and merchants from various European countries. Each state claimed domination and ownership of territories rich in resources. Some historians believe that the real cause of the Berlin Conference was the rivalry over the exploitation of the Congo basin. Bismarck, eager to avoid conflict among European powers, called for the conference. He brought together fourteen countries, including Germany, Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Denmark, the Ottoman Empire, Spain, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Sweden-Norway, and the United States. The deliberations were held in ten sessions and were based on a map of Africa prepared by German geographer Kiepert. Among the issues addressed were freedom of navigation on the Congo and Niger rivers, free trade in the Congo basin, and the establishment of regulations for future occupation of African territories. The conference resulted in the drawing of borders for European colonies in Africa. Leopold II of Belgium was personally rewarded with 2.5 million km², which would become the independent state of the Congo. To the northwest, 500,000 km² fell to France, forming what later became French Congo (Brazzaville). France also secured the interior of Niger, while the Niger River delta fell under British control.

Consequences 

While the Berlin Conference helped ease tensions among European powers, it also had significant and dramatic consequences for Africa, many of which are still felt today.

The Birth of a New Form of Imperialism

The Berlin Conference opened the way for a new phase of European domination over Africa; a process often called the “Scramble for Africa.” This domination, initially based on commercial agreements and local alliances, quickly turned into total colonization with all its suffering and injustice: the exploitation of resources, the oppression of local populations, and the destruction of social and cultural structures.

The Exclusion of Africans and its Consequences

One striking feature of the Berlin Conference was the complete absence of African representatives. No king or leader from Africa was present or consulted. This exclusion constitutes a major injustice and a persistent cause of instability. Europeans drew borders without consideration for geopolitical or ethnic realities. This arbitrary division had dramatic effects after independence: ethnic conflict stemming from borders, ongoing geopolitical tensions notably in the DRC, the Sahel, and other regions and struggles for control of natural resources, often exacerbated by rivalries created by colonization. Today, Africa is still healing from this situation; many ongoing conflicts on the continent find their roots in the arbitrary decisions made at the Berlin Conference.

Conclusion 

The Berlin Conference marked a decisive turning point in Africa’s history, sealing its colonial fate and laying the foundations for many contemporary challenges. The exclusion of Africans, the arbitrary division of the continent, and the imposition of a colonial order have left deep and enduring traces. As Africa marks the 140th anniversary of the end of this conference, it is crucial to continue analysing and understanding its legacies in order to better appreciate current challenges and to construct a more stable and prosperous future.