Albania has taken a drastic measure to address growing concerns over social media’s influence on youth violence. The country imposed a one-year ban on TikTok. This decision comes after a fatal stabbing incident involving a 14-year-old boy, allegedly triggered by an online dispute on the platform.
Prime Minister Edi Rama announced the ban, asserting that TikTok will be shut down completely in Albania, citing the platform’s role in exacerbating societal problems and taking children “hostage”. The ban is set to begin in early 2025 and is part of a broader strategy to ensure school safety.
The incident has sparked outrage among parents and educators, with reports emerging that videos glorifying the killing were shared on TikTok. Rama emphasized the need to address the platform’s influence on youth behavior, blaming it for sparking violence among children.
Albania joins other countries, such as France and Belgium, in restricting social media use among young people. While critics argue that such bans may not address deeper societal issues, supporters believe immediate action is necessary to protect young users.
