Another setback for TikTok, which is already facing challenges in the USA with potential bans, as Albania announces a bold decision to block the social media platform for a year starting in 2025.
The Albanian government, citing growing concerns over TikTok’s harmful impact on young people, revealed the decision during a meeting in Tirana.
Prime Minister Edi Rama expressed his frustration, saying, “We are going to chase this thug out of our neighborhood for one year,” and outlined plans to introduce initiatives aimed at supporting student education and assisting parents in monitoring their children’s online activity.
This sweeping measure follows a tragic incident in November, when a 14-year-old student was killed and another injured in a violent altercation near a school in Tirana, allegedly triggered by a TikTok-related confrontation. The incident sparked an intense debate in Albania about the role of social media in the lives of youth, leading the government to take action.
Rama also highlighted the stark difference between TikTok’s content in China and elsewhere, criticizing the platform’s harmful influence outside of China. “In China, TikTok promotes ways students can take courses, protect nature, and preserve traditions. But outside of China, we only see scum and mud. Why do we need this?” he stated, reflecting the government’s concerns over the platform’s detrimental effects.
This decision comes as global concerns about TikTok’s impact on children and teens continue to rise. Neighboring countries like Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Serbia have also reported troubling incidents linked to TikTok challenges. In Kosovo, a TikTok challenge was linked to at least 22 cases of self-harm among schoolgirls, while in North Macedonia, teenagers were injured after attempting the “Superman” challenge. In Serbia, high school students engaged in the dangerous “choking” challenge.
TikTok’s issues are not confined to these countries. With over a billion active users worldwide, the platform faces allegations of espionage in the U.S. and scrutiny from the European Union over alleged election interference in Romania. Several nations, including the U.S., have banned TikTok for state personnel, citing national security concerns.
Despite mounting criticism, TikTok continues to thrive, with its interactive challenges and addictive short-form videos captivating millions of young users across the globe. Will other countries follow Albania’s example? Only time will tell.