Albania Announces One-Year TikTok Ban

Albania has announced a one-year ban on TikTok, a decision made by Prime Minister Edi Rama in the wake of a tragic stabbing of a 14-year-old, which authorities attribute to social media disputes. Following extensive consultations with parents and educators, Rama emphasized that TikTok is inciting violence among youth, stating, "There will be no TikTok in the Republic of Albania." The government plans to implement safety programs in schools, including increased police presence and training for parents. This ban aligns with a global trend, as other countries, including Australia and several European nations, are instituting stricter regulations on children’s social media use. Critics argue the ban infringes on freedom of speech and label it a politically motivated act. The Albanian government intends to assess the situation after one year to decide on the future of TikTok in the country.