Albania decides to shut down TikTok: 'Consists only of filth and mud'

Action is being taken in Albania against the China-based social media platform TikTok. Prime Minister Edi Rama announced today at a meeting in the capital Tirana with teachers, parents, and psychologists from across the country that they will ban TikTok for one year starting from the beginning of 2025.

Describing TikTok as the "neighborhood thug," Rama said, "We will kick this thug out of the neighborhood for one year. We will close access to TikTok for everyone for one year. There will be no TikTok in Albania."

"IT CONSISTS ONLY OF FILTH AND MUD"

Rama accused social media platforms, especially TikTok, of fueling violence among young people both inside and outside of schools.

Rama also announced that the Albanian government will launch programs to support students' education and allow parents to monitor their children's progress.

Rama stated, "In China, TikTok highlights how students can take courses, how they can protect nature, and how they can uphold their traditions. On the other hand, outside of China, TikTok consists only of filth and mud. Why would we need something like that?"

THEY SUPPORTED THE MURDER WITH THE VIDEOS THEY FILMED

Discussions regarding the banning of TikTok in Albania began after a 14-year-old student was stabbed to death in a fight near a school in Tirana in November. According to reports in the Albanian media, the incident occurred following an argument on social media, and videos of children supporting the murder on TikTok had also emerged.

TikTok, which has over a billion active users worldwide, has faced accusations of espionage in the US, and in the European Union country of Romania, it has faced accusations of providing a platform for attempts to influence election results in favor of a far-right presidential candidate.