The significance of the Berlin Conference in 1884 was that it established the framework for the partitioning of Africa among European powers without African representation. Convened by Otto von Bismarck, the conference aimed to prevent conflict between colonial powers while formalizing claims to African territories. As a result, Africa was divided largely based on European interests, disregarding existing cultural, ethnic, and political boundaries. This led to exploitation, oppression, and lasting repercussions for African societies, laying the groundwork for future conflicts and challenges in post-colonial governance.