UNICEF survey reveals youth wildfire concerns in Albania

Wildfire impact prompts youth concerns in Albania

A UNICEF report has highlighted that young people in Albania are increasingly concerned about wildfires and their impact on health, safety and the environment.

According to UNICEF, wildfires have become a recurring summer threat across Albania and the wider Western Balkans, worsened by rising temperatures, prolonged droughts and dry landscapes.

The organisation reported that in July 2025, U-Report survey data showed 78% of young respondents believed wildfires in Albania are caused by human activity, often intentional.

It added that more than half of respondents, 56%, said they had been directly or indirectly affected by wildfires.

The survey also showed that only 16% of young people feel prepared for fire-related emergencies, while 33% said they rarely or never feel safe during wildfire season.

Human activity and climate conditions

UNICEF explained that young respondents see wildfires as a mix of environmental and human causes.

It reported that climate change contributes to conditions that allow fires to spread faster and last longer.

The organisation added that young people view human activity, including deliberate actions, as a major driver of wildfire outbreaks.

According to UNICEF, this perception means that awareness and education are seen as necessary for reducing preventable fires.

It said that survey results suggest young people expect communities to address both environmental pressures and human-caused risks in order to reduce damage.

Youth engagement and prevention efforts

UNICEF stated that 85% of young respondents indicated they wanted to be involved in wildfire awareness and prevention work.

It added that young people suggested activities such as workshops, fire safety campaigns and community engagement projects to support preparedness.

The organisation explained that respondents also called for schools to include environmental education and fire readiness as part of the curriculum.

According to UNICEF, youth activists highlighted the importance of simulations and emergency drills to build confidence and support during real incidents.

It reported that volunteering in reforestation and clean-up projects was seen as another way to demonstrate responsibility towards the environment.

Broader health and social consequences

UNICEF highlighted that wildfire smoke and damage have health consequences, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and people with asthma.

It reported that wildfires can also destroy wildlife habitats and farmland, with long-term effects on local economies and tourism.

The organisation explained that beyond physical damage, communities experience stress, disrupted daily life and emotional pressure during fire season.

According to UNICEF, these issues mean that young people see wildfire prevention as linked directly to protecting public health and community stability.

It added that respondents viewed wildfires as more than an environmental issue, stressing their long-lasting impact on social and economic wellbeing.

Voices of youth activists

UNICEF shared the views of youth activists involved in its Adolescent Advisory Board.

One activist said: “We as young people are one of the most powerful resources in preventing and responding to those issues that directly affect our lives.

“We can start by raising awareness in our communities, organising workshops and sharing fire safety tips, especially in rural or high-risk areas.

“In schools, we should push for environmental education and emergency preparedness to be part of the curriculum from an early age.

“Volunteering for clean-up and reforestation projects also shows that we care about our environment and want to help it heal.

“My final call to action is that we cannot wait for someone else to take the first step.

“As young people, we can be the generation that stops wildfires before they start, through awareness, responsible action, and care for our environment.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The UNICEF survey offers insights into how young people perceive wildfire risk and what actions they see as necessary to address it.

For fire and safety professionals, the findings highlight gaps in preparedness among youth communities and the potential role of education and training.

The responses also suggest opportunities for professionals to collaborate with schools, local groups and youth organisations on prevention campaigns and emergency readiness exercises.

This perspective provides context for developing strategies that connect wildfire risk management with public engagement and resilience building.

UNICEF survey reveals youth wildfire concerns in Albania: Summary

UNICEF reported that wildfires are a growing summer threat in Albania and the Western Balkans.

The organisation stated that climate change and human activity both contribute to increasing wildfire outbreaks.

According to UNICEF, 78% of young respondents believe wildfires are caused by human actions.

It said that 56% of respondents had been directly or indirectly affected by wildfires.

UNICEF reported that only 16% of young people feel prepared for fire-related emergencies.

It added that 33% said they rarely or never feel safe during wildfire season.

The organisation stated that 85% of respondents want to participate in awareness and prevention efforts.

UNICEF reported that young people called for environmental education in schools and community workshops.

It said that health, economic and social consequences were highlighted as major concerns.

The organisation explained that wildfire smoke particularly affects children, the elderly and those with asthma.

It added that fires destroy habitats, farmland and tourism areas, causing long-term economic damage.

According to UNICEF, young people emphasised the stress and disruption caused by wildfires.

The organisation stated that youth activists view prevention as essential to protecting communities.

It added that volunteers see reforestation and clean-up projects as part of the solution.

UNICEF concluded that involving youth is central to reducing wildfire risks in Albania.