Germany recently hosted a significant symposium to commemorate the 140th anniversary of the Berlin Conference, an event that has had lasting implications for Africa and Europe. The event was opened by Togolese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, under the auspices of KFW Bank and the Africa House of Germany. This gathering aimed to foster deep reflection on the historical context of the Berlin Conference and its impact on contemporary African-European relations.
The Berlin Conference, held from November 15, 1884 to February 26, 1885, was orchestrated by German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck and involved representatives from fourteen countries. It formalized the “Scramble for Africa,” establishing protocols for European colonization and trade on the continent. The conference’s final document, known as the General Act of Berlin, facilitated the partitioning of Africa among European powers, often without regard for existing indigenous cultures or political structures.
In his opening remarks, Minister Dussey emphasized the need for sincere dialogue and mutual respect in shaping future European policies towards Africa. He expressed hope that this symposium would serve as a catalyst for ongoing exchanges aimed at building a more equitable partnership between the two regions. Notably, former Liberian President *Ellen Johnson Sirleaf* delivered a poignant speech, underscoring the importance of acknowledging historical injustices while fostering collaboration.
The symposium brought together decision-makers from Germany, Africa, and Europe, alongside representatives from academia, business, and civil society. Participants engaged in discussions about the historical significance of the Berlin Conference and its colonial legacy, aiming to create a shared understanding that could enhance African-European partnerships moving forward.
Despite its historical weight, awareness of the Berlin Conference’s implications remains limited in both German public opinion and politics. The symposium sought to address this gap by encouraging a collective memory that acknowledges past injustices while paving the way for a more cooperative future.
