On 12-13 May 2026, the German Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), organized the inaugural Resolution 1540 Regional Outreach to Academia Conference for Southeastern Europe, held in Tirana, Albania. This was the first such event under the Erlangen Initiative, which engages academia to translate the objectives of United Nations Security Council resolution 1540 into practical prevention measures, held in Southeastern Europe.
In her opening remarks, Blerina Abrazhda, Deputy Minister of Defence of Albania, acknowledged that export controls remain insufficiently understood in the subregion. Highlighting the rapid pace of innovation and technological advancement, she emphasized that effective implementation of resolution 1540 cannot rely solely on governments and regulatory authorities but requires broader engagement across society.
The conference featured dynamic and forward-looking discussions on the role of academia in export control compliance. Participants underscored the importance of ensuring that the scientific community understands its responsibilities while continuing to advance research and innovation. As one participant noted, “Don’t wait—it’s a continuous process.”
BAFA shared valuable insights into fostering cooperation between regulators and academic institutions. Representatives from several European countries also contributed expertise on regulatory frameworks and shared good practices in export control implementation.
Academic representatives from across the region presented their experiences, highlighting both initiatives and challenges related to export control compliance. Discussions included approaches to academic self-regulation and efforts to align research practices with non-proliferation obligations.
Participants consistently emphasized that regional cooperation is essential to address interconnected security risks. Recognizing the cross-border nature of emerging threats, they affirmed a shared responsibility to respond collectively. As one participant aptly remarked, “We are all in the same boat, dealing with the same problems.”
The conference concluded with a shared recognition of the need to strengthen awareness of export controls within the academic community. An Albanian proverb—“Knowledge is a wealth that cannot be stolen”—captured the spirit of the event. It reflects a fundamental principle underlying the implementation of resolution 1540: ensuring that scientific
progress serves exclusively peaceful purposes and remains beyond the reach of those who would seek to misuse it.
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