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TikTok Ban Takes Effect in Albania Amid Youth Violence Concerns
Government Ban Enforced
TikTok users in Albania are facing difficulties accessing the platform after a government ban took effect. Authorities cite concerns that social media is contributing to youth violence in and outside schools.
The ban follows similar actions taken in over 20 countries, citing inappropriate content and security risks due to TikTok’s ties to its parent company, ByteDance.
Access Restrictions Begin
Some users reported being unable to access TikTok via web browsers, receiving error messages stating, “This site can’t be reached.” However, the mobile app remained functional for some.
A government official confirmed that the ban would soon extend to the app itself. Internet providers were ordered to submit written confirmation of TikTok’s shutdown by the deadline.
Incident Leading to the Ban
Authorities made the decision following the fatal stabbing of a 14-year-old boy by a fellow student, reportedly after disputes on social media.
TikTok responded, stating that their internal findings indicated the videos linked to the incident had been posted on another platform, not TikTok.
Censorship Concerns and Legal Challenges
The Association of Journalists in Albania (AJA) announced plans to challenge the ban in the Constitutional Court, arguing that it restricts freedom of expression and constitutes censorship.
Opposition parties accused the government of attempting to suppress dissent, noting that TikTok was frequently used to criticize officials. Prime Minister Edi Rama’s administration denied these allegations.
Public Response and Protests
The Democratic Party, the country’s largest opposition group, called for protests against the ban, scheduled to take place in front of government offices.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rama criticized TikTok’s global content, claiming that outside China, the app promotes negative and harmful material.
“TikTok Ban Takes Effect in Albania Amid Youth Violence Concerns” “TikTok Ban Takes Effect in Albania Amid Youth Violence Concerns”