TikTok faces ban in Albania after teen’s death

Albania has announced a one-year nationwide ban on TikTok, citing concerns about the platform’s influence on children. The decision follows the fatal stabbing of a 14-year-old boy in November, reportedly linked to social media disputes. Prime Minister Edi Rama revealed the ban as part of a broader strategy to enhance school safety after consultations with parents and teachers.

The Prime Minister has criticised TikTok and similar platforms for encouraging youth violence. Videos supporting the killing were shared online, raising alarms about the role of social media in such incidents. Rama stated that society, not children, bears responsibility for the issue, describing TikTok as a platform that holds children ‘hostage’.

Several European nations, including France and Germany, have introduced restrictions on social media for children. Albania’s move aligns with a growing global trend, with Australia recently approving a complete social media ban for users under 16.

TikTok responded by seeking clarity from the Albanian government, claiming no evidence linked the involved teens to the platform. A spokesperson suggested another platform might have hosted the content tied to the incident.