European country bans TikTok for one year after death of teenager - Teachers across the country approved of the ban

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama announced Albania was shutting down TikTok from early 2025. In a statement released within hours, a TikTok spokesman said: "We are seeking urgent clarity from the Albanian government.

The Albanian government has announced that from early 2025, it will enforce a year-long ban on TikTok for all citizens. This decision is a response to increasing violence among young people, which Prime Minister Edi Rama attributes to the influence of social media.

Albania will ban TikTok for one year, after the killing of a teenager raised fears the social media app is a negative influence.

Albania on Saturday announced a one-year ban on TikTok, the popular short video app, following the killing of a teenager last month that raised fears over the influence of social media on children.

A 14-year-old boy was stabbed to death last month, allegedly by a fellow pupil, with the incident reportedly taking place following an argument between the pair on social media. The incident sparked a wider debate in the country.

Albania’s prime minister says the government will shut down video service TikTok for one year, blaming it for inciting violence and bullying, especially among children

Albania's prime minister’s decision to shut down TikTok on Sunday was criticized by the country's youth, who say the video service is not entirely responsible for crime and violence.

Albanian children comprise the largest group of TikTok users in the country, according to domestic researchers.

PM Edi Rama announced the move after meeting parents and teachers over the effects on young people of social media.