Albania has announced a one-year ban on TikTok after the stabbing of a 14-year-old boy, which raised concerns about social media's influence on children. Prime Minister Edi Rama articulated that the decision was made after consultations with parents and teachers, highlighting TikTok's role in fueling violence among youth. "For one year, we'll be completely shutting it down for everyone," he stated, emphasizing that the app creates an environment that can take children hostage and incite harmful behavior.
Rama emphasized during the announcement that the issue lies not solely with the children but with society and the platforms enabling harmful interactions. He remarked, "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," pointing out the broader implications of social media in exacerbating violence among youth.
Opposition lawmaker Ina Zhupa criticized the decision, denouncing it as a violation of freedom of speech and a misuse of power. She declared, "The dictatorial decision to close the social media platform TikTok is a grave act against freedom of speech and democracy." Zhupa accused the government of abusing its authority for electoral gains, implying that such actions suppress the freedoms necessary in a democratic society.
Amidst rising concerns, several European countries have introduced similar measures some addressing social media concerns for minors, indicating a growing trend of regulatory actions. Countries like France, Germany, and Belgium have set restrictions while Australia has instituted a total social media ban for children under 16, reflecting a global acknowledgment of social media's potential dangers for youth.
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