Tech Desk 
Dec 22, 2024
An undated image of TikTok logo. — PixaBay
While the US recently asked Apple and Google to remove TikTok from their app stores, the short video platform has been banned for one year in Albania as well.
The ban stepped into the limelight following a gruesome stabbing, followed by the death, of a teenager by his classmate, causing unease among the masses regarding the impact of social media on youth.
TikTok ban in Albania
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama on Saturday confirmed the TikTok ban in Albania after meeting with parent groups and teachers from across the country.
"For one year, we’ll be completely shutting it down for everyone. There will be no TikTok in Albania,” Rama said.
Effective in early 2025, the ban is said to be forming part of the government’s response to the tragic incident of the death of a 14-year-old boy last month, which was led by an argument triggered on social media.
After the disconcerting incident, the Albanian government conducted over 1,300 meetings with teachers and parents to look after concerns pertaining to online safety.
The Albanian prime minister specifically blamed TikTok for exacerbating violence among youth inside and outside of schools, as videos surfacing on the internet showed minors abetting the killing of the teen.
