Albania has announced a one-year ban on TikTok, set to begin in early 2025. Prime Minister Edi Rama stated, “There will be no TikTok in Albania,” indicating that the ban could potentially be extended.
This decision follows the death of a 14-year-old boy in a school stabbing last month, which reportedly stemmed from a social media dispute. Videos of the incident were also shared online.
Rama attributed part of the violence issue to TikTok and other social media, saying, “The problem is not with our children, but with us. TikTok and other platforms hold our children hostage.” The ban is part of a broader initiative including police deployment, training, and increased parental involvement.
Social media, particularly among youth, has faced criticism in several countries, with Belgium, France, and Germany announcing restrictions, and Australia aiming to bar those under 16. TikTok has “urgently sought clarification” from Albania, asserting the involved youths did not have TikTok accounts and the videos circulated mainly on other platforms.
An opposition politician criticized the ban as an overreaction, citing concerns over freedom of expression and democracy.
Source: NOS