Prof. Assoc. Bledar Xhemali
Conference President
Dear Esteemed Colleagues,
It is with great pleasure that I invite you to the 16th Conference of the Balkan Academy of Forensic Sciences, under the theme "Bridging Science, Justice, and Humanity", to be held in Tirana, Albania, from 08-11 October 2025.
This year’s meeting will take place in the vibrant and historic city of Tirana, a crossroads of cultures and a nation renowned for its resilience, hospitality, and commitment to progress. Albania’s journey toward justice and reconciliation, particularly in addressing complex forensic and humanitarian challenges, makes it a fitting host for this gathering of esteemed professionals and expert’s.
Albania, with roots tracing back to the Pelasgians and Illyrians, is a country rich in ancient history and unique culture. Its traditions, such as polyphonic singing and traditional attire, reflect a vibrant heritage. Albanian hospitality, embodied in the code of honor “Besa,” is one of its most cherished virtues. Albanians are known for their strong sense of identity, hospitality, and vibrant traditions, including colorful attire and a deep respect for family and community values. The unique Albanian language and cultural heritage make Albania a remarkable testament to enduring history and tradition.
Today, Albania is rapidly developing, integrating into the European and global stage while preserving its cultural legacy. Its rich culture blends ancient traditions, such as polyphonic singing, with influences from diverse historical periods.
The conference will feature:
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Keynote presentations by leading voices in forensic science.
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Interactive workshops and discussions on advancements in forensic technologies.
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Networking opportunities to foster collaboration and innovation across the region.
We look forward to welcoming you to Tirana, where together we can continue to advance forensic science in the service of justice and humanity.
Warm regards,
General Information
Date & Venue
The Conference will be held in a face to face and virtual format on 08-11 October 2025 at Mak Albania Hotel.
Official Language
The official language of the Conference will be English. Only abstracts submitted in English will be accepted.
About Tirana
Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, is known for its colorful architecture, bustling café culture, and historical landmarks, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Visitors can explore museums, parks, markets, and enjoy rich Albanian cuisine.
Climate
During early October, Tirana experiences mild autumn weather. Daytime temperatures typically range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F), while evenings can be cooler, averaging around 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F). Participants are advised to bring light clothing for daytime and a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.
Currency and Credit Card Usage
The official currency in Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL). Major international credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro) are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and stores in Tirana. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawal.
Invitation / Confirmation Letters
An official invitation letter will be sent on request. This letter, however, does not constitute any commitment by the Conference organizers to cover registration fees, or other costs connected with participation in the Conference. To make a request for an official invitation letter/confirmation, please contact the congress Secretariat. Letters will be sent by the Conference Secretariat upon completion and payment of registration.
Congress Access
Access to the congress halls will be provided exclusively through the badge issued upon registration at the Registration Desk.
Internet Access
Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access will be available throughout the venue.
Registration Desk and Info Stand
The Congress Registration Desk and Info Stand will be located in the lobby of the Mak Albania Hotel each day between 09:00 – 16:00.
Under the Auspices of
Ministry of Justice of Albania
Important Dates
Abstract Submission Deadline: 01 August 2025
Notification of Abstract Acceptance: 20 August 2025
Early Bird Registration Deadline: 31 August 2025
Regular Registration Opens: 01 September 2025
Topics
Anthropology – Odontology
Criminalistics
Forensic Biology & Genetics
Forensic Psychiatry & Behavioural Sciences
Security Studies and Policing
Humanitarian Forensics
Clinical Forensic Medicine
Criminology
Forensic Engineering
Medical Law – Jurisprudence
Sexual Violence
Forensic Nursing
Crime Prevention Strategies
Environmental Forensics
Forensic Pathology
Questioned Documents
Toxicology
General
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
SCIENTIFIC COMMITEE
Adarsh Kumar, IND | M. Akif Inanici, TR |
Admir Sinamati, ALB | Madalina Diac, ROM |
Ali Chadly, TN | Magdy Kharoshah, SA |
Andrei Padure, MOL | Maria Grozeva, BLG |
Andrew Forrester, UK | Meric Karacan, TR |
Arben Lloja, ALB | Michael Freeman, CA |
Aristidis Tsatsakis, GR | Michal Pollanen, CAD |
Arsim Gerxhaliu, KOS | Mirnela Kocibelli, ALB |
Ashraf Mozayani, USA | Mohammed Ranavaya, USA |
Bledar Xhemali, ALB | Naim Haliti, KOS |
Calin Scripcaru, ROM | Naim Uka, KOS |
Chara Spiliopoulou, GR | Nardi Sheqerxhiu, KOS |
Cristian George Curca, ROM | Nikolas Lemos, USA |
Dan Perju-Dumbrava, ROM | Nikos Karakoukis, GR |
Denis Syndercombe, UK | Oguz Polat, TR |
Diana Bulgaru Iliescu, ROM | Peter Vanezis, UK |
Dilek Battal, TR | Sebnem Korur Fincaci, TR |
Ditor Haliti, KOS | Sebnem Ozcan, TR |
Duarte Nuno Vieira, PT | Sefik Koprulu, TR |
Elena Kranioti, GR | Serap Anette Akgur, TR |
Elif Gunce Eskikoy, TR | Sevil Atasoy, TR |
Eva Montanari, IT | Sevki Sozen,TR |
Fatih Yavuz, TR | Sherien Ghaleb, EG |
Fatos Haziri, KOS | Slobodan Savic, SR |
Flamur Blakaj, KOS | Sokrat Meksi, ALB |
Gentian Vyshka, ALB | Sotirios Kalfoglou, GR |
Gregory Leon, GR | Stefano D'Errico, IT |
Hakan Kar, TR | Sven Benthaus, GER |
Halide Nihal Acikgoz, TR | Taner Guven, TR |
Halis Dokgoz, TR | Vasil Atanasov, BLG |
Hulya Yukseloglu, TR | Venera Mehmeti, KOS |
Islam Kryeziu, KOS | Vesa Kotori, KOS |
Jason Payne-James, UK | Viola Halili, AL |
Jennifer Pierce-Weeks, USA | Virginia Lynch, USA |
John Clark, UK | Xenia Kyriakou, CY |
Katerina Kanaki, GR | Yanko Kolev, BLG |
Kurt Trubner, GER | Zana Bruci, ALB |
Leart Berdica, ALB | Zija Ismaili, ALB |
Leda Kovatsi, GR | Zlatko Jakovski, NMK |
Linda Matua, ALB |
HONORARY CONFERENCE PRESIDENT
CONFERENCE PRESIDENT
CONFERENCE GENERAL SECRETARY
ORGANIZING COMMITEE
LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITEE
SCIENTIFIC SECRETARIAT
Meryem Ebedi
Nazlı Hölümen
Asude Nur Algül
E-mail: contact@balkanacademy.org
Venue
Mak Albania Hotel
Adress: Sheshi Italia 2, 1019 Tirana - Albania
Partners
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Accommodation
We have secured rooms at the below seen hotels. We strongly recommend reserving hotel accommodations at your earliest convenience as rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Mak Albania Hotel
Single Room
100€
Per Night
Double Room
120€
Per Night
Hotel Amenities Included in Room Price
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Breakfast and all local taxes
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24-hour access to Health Club (sauna and fitness facilities)
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24-hour access to indoor and outdoor swimming pools
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Complimentary daily mineral water
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Coffee and tea maker in the room
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Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
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24-hour access to the hotel’s Business Corner
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Free parking facilities
Adress: Sheshi Italia 2, 1019 Tirana - Albania
To make a reservation and benefit from these rates, please send an email to the address below and mention that you are booking for the Balkan Academy of Forensic Sciences meeting.
Tirana International Hotel
Single Room
94€
Per Night
Double Room
109€
Per Night
Hotel Amenities Included in Room Price
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Breakfast and all local taxes
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Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access (in rooms and public areas)
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Internet and computer usage in the Business Centre
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Complimentary parking facilities
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Portage service
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TV stations
Adress: Skanderbeg Square 8, 1001 Tirana, Albania
To make a reservation and benefit from these rates, please send an email to the address below and mention that you are booking for the Balkan Academy of Forensic Sciences meeting.
Hotel Hilton Garden INN
Single Room
85€
Per Night
Double Room
100€
Per Night
Adress: 146 Bulevardi Gjergj Fishta, Tirana, 1001, Albania
To make a reservation and benefit from these rates, please send an email to the address below and mention that you are booking for the Balkan Academy of Forensic Sciences meeting.
Registration Fees
Early Bird Until 31 August 2025
Early Bird
150€
Until 31 August 2025
Delegate
Early Bird
50€
Until 31 August 2025
Student
After 31 August 2025
After
200€
After 31 August 2025
Delegate
After
100€
After 31 August 2025
Student
50€
Accompanying Person
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Entry to all scientific sessions
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Access to the exhibition hall
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Congress kit (name badge, bag, brochure)
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Scheduled coffee breaks
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Participation certificate
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Annual Dues of BAFS Membership