Tirana Fire Safety 2026 conference brings together international experts in the Albanian capital

Published: Thursday, 17 September 2026 13:40

 “Civil protection cannot be built on emergency response alone. We must be just as effective at prevention as we are at responding to emergencies.”

This was the central message delivered by Defence Minister Ermal Nufi at the opening of the international Tirana Fire Safety 2026 Conference. Taking place in Tirana, the conference brings together experts, public institutions, industry professionals, academics, and representatives from the construction and technology sectors.

Against a backdrop of rapid urban development and increasingly large and complex buildings, Minister Nufi stressed the need for higher fire-safety standards. He noted that safety considerations must be incorporated from the earliest stages of building and infrastructure design.

“Safety can never be taken for granted, nor should it ever be treated as an afterthought. It must be designed into every project from the outset.” he said.

Referring to this summer as one of the hottest in recent years, Minister Nufi stated that, by 9 September 2026, Albania’s civil protection system had responded to 81 major fire incidents. These operations involved more than 14,600 personnel, nearly 1,350 ground vehicles and 180 aerial missions.

“Behind these figures are people, long hours of work, personal sacrifice and a coordinated effort by the Armed Forces, fire and rescue services, local authorities, the State Police, forestry services, protected-area administrations, volunteers and all other organisations within the system.” - Minister Nufi said.

He explained that Albania’s civil protection system, operating under the Law on Civil Protection, is centred on risk reduction, prevention, preparedness, coordination and community resilience.

Minister Nufi also emphasised the importance of close cooperation among public institutions, experts and the private sector. Effective fire safety, he noted, depends on clear standards, safety-focused design, proper implementation, rigorous inspections and modern technology.

“Fire safety is more than a technical or administrative requirement. It is an essential element of public safety, responsible urban development and resilient communities.” -  he said.

The Defence Minister further highlighted the opportunities arising from Albania’s participation in the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, including higher standards, improved personnel training, the development of interoperable capabilities and the adoption of European best practices.

Minister Nufi said that the Ministry of Defence, the National Civil Protection Agency and other relevant institutions: “Will continue to support initiatives that promote higher standards, greater expertise, modern technology, closer cooperation and a stronger culture of prevention, helping to create safer communities and reduce the impact of civil emergencies.”

The Tirana Fire Safety 2026 Conference is being held over two days at the Tirana International Hotel. It brings together international experts, industry professionals, public authorities, engineers, consultants, manufacturers and representatives of the construction sector.