ISFFT 2026 marked the first edition of the festival, focusing on the Western Balkans as an artistic, cultural and academic hub. Collaboration with universities in the region was an essential part of this edition, transforming the festival into a meeting hub for networking and professional development of students and faculty.

This edition aimed to strengthen inter-university relations, promote mobility and build a model of cooperation that reflects the energy of the region. Going forward, ISFFT aims to expand towards European partners, creating a broad international platform where film education and cultural dialogue coexist in harmony.

ISFFT 2026 took place on April 21–24, 2026, at the University of Arts, Tirana.