This year, Montenegrin firefighters have faced a challenging battle against wildfires. Despite their determination, skill, and bravery, the material and technological resources available are significantly lacking compared to those in European countries. To bring about change and properly recognize the efforts of firefighters, it is crucial to implement the Firefighting Law, as highlighted by Goran Tripković, the union president.

“We are the only country in Europe without a clear process for becoming a firefighter. The law currently stipulates that applicants must be under 25 years old, be Montenegrin citizens, and have no criminal record. In essence, anyone interested must pass tests to determine their suitability for the role,” Tripković stated in an interview with RTNK.

The need for laws that better regulate the firefighting sector is not acknowledged by the overarching body responsible for protection and rescue operations.

“With support from the Municipality of Nikšić, the Fire Department attempted to establish a firefighter training school. We have received approval and documentation from the Ministry of Education to conduct training. Although we have the necessary facilities ready, we are still waiting on permission from the Ministry of Internal Affairs to proceed with training for firefighters and rescuers. We are currently preparing individuals who have assisted us recently, albeit without formal recognition, as we strive to create a system akin to those in European nations,” he explained.

Tripković emphasizes the importance of defining clear responsibilities within the firefighting framework, adding that the public must understand that a firefighter from Nikšić cannot simply travel to Podgorica to assist with a fire.

“We voluntarily offered our help in Podgorica. We left our own city behind to support them, and it was disappointing to hear that only the firefighters from Podgorica were acknowledged for receiving an award. Our motivations are not financial; we’re driven by other values. We hope this is just a misunderstanding and that all those who assisted Podgorica will be recognized, as it’s essential to remember that more firefighters from outside Podgorica were present than from there. It wouldn’t be appropriate to create divisions among us. If such decisions persist, it could lead to unforeseen issues in the future, particularly because those in power seem not to recognize the current regulations. As it stands, the law does not permit us to assist without a directive from state authorities, which leads to complexities concerning daily allowances, insurance, and fuel costs—all of which remain unresolved. Once these matters are addressed, it will ultimately benefit the citizens,” Tripković added.

Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful that meaningful changes will occur in the system following the grueling battles against the fires, ultimately benefiting society.

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