Albania has announced a one-year ban on the popular social media app TikTok, following the killing of a teenager last month. Prime Minister Edi Rama blamed TikTok and other social media platforms for fuelling violence among youth in schools.
The ban is part of a broader plan to make schools safer, and it will take effect early next year. Several European countries have already enforced restrictions on social media use for children. Australia recently approved a complete social media ban for minors under 16.
A 14-year-old schoolboy was stabbed to death by a fellow pupil after arguing online. Videos showed minors supporting the killing on TikTok, but the app’s spokesperson claims they found no evidence of any involvement from users. The Albanian government believes that social media platforms like TikTok are taking children hostage and contributing to societal problems.
The ban is aimed at reducing violence among youth and making schools safer for all students. It marks a significant move by Albania to address concerns over the impact of social media on children’s well-being.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/technology/albania-bans-tiktok-year-after-killing-teenager-2024-12-21