Skip to main content

Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

Albania has officially announced a one-year nationwide ban on TikTok, arguing that the platform is promoting youth violence.

Some shit you should know before you read: Back in November, a 14-year-old boy was stabbed to death by a classmate following an argument that began on social media. The incident was tied to TikTok as videos emerged on the platform showing minors expressing support for the killing. Additionally, the attacker had shared images of himself with a knife and posts related to the dispute on other social media platforms. This resulted in some Albanian lawmakers calling for action against TikTok.

What’s going on now: In an announcement, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama revealed a decision to ban TikTok nationwide for one year, citing its role in escalating violence among youth. The ban will take six to eight weeks to implement and will make the platform entirely inaccessible across the country.

In a statement, Rama said, “The problem today is not our children. The problem today is us. The problem today is our society. The problem today is TikTok and all the others that are taking our children hostage.”

Criticism from opposition lawmakers: Despite the Prime Minister’s decision, some lawmakers have opposed the decision, arguing it goes against freedom of speech. In a statement, Albanian lawmaker Ina Zhupa said, “The dictatorial decision to close the social media platform TikTok … is a grave act against freedom of speech and democracy. It is a pure electoral act and abuse of power to suppress freedoms.”

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Keep up to date with our latest videos, news and content