Tirana – The Albanian Prime Minister, Edi Rama, recently turned the spotlight on an issue of great social and cultural relevance: the impact of the social network TikTok on young people and on Albanian society. During a public speech, Rama expressed concerns about the role of the platform in negatively influencing the new generations, fueling phenomena of addiction, misinformation and cultural superficiality.
TikTok, the video sharing social network that has gained millions of users around the world in recent years, is particularly popular among young people. However, according to Rama, this success is not without consequences. “We cannot ignore the risks that indiscriminate use of platforms like TikTok entails,” the prime minister said. “We are witnessing a progressive weakening of the critical capacity of our young people, who are increasingly immersed in a virtual reality that distances them from real life and true values.”
The Albanian government in action
It is not the first time that Rama intervenes on issues related to digital. In the past, the Albanian government has promoted initiatives to regulate the use of technologies, trying to find a balance between innovation and citizen protection. However, the TikTok phenomenon seems to represent a particularly complex challenge, especially due to its ability to capture users' attention with short, captivating and often not very educational content.
Rama also highlighted how TikTok can amplify the spread of harmful content, including hateful messages, fake news and dangerous behavior. “We cannot allow a generation to be raised by algorithms that prioritize virality over quality content,” he said.
Civil society reactions
The prime minister's statements sparked mixed reactions. On the one hand, many parents and teachers have welcomed his position, recognizing the need for greater attention to digital education. “Young people spend hours on TikTok, wasting precious time that could be dedicated to studying or more constructive activities,” commented a teacher from Tirana.
On the other hand, some young people and digital activists have defended the platform, arguing that it also represents a space of creativity and economic opportunity for many users. “TikTok is a tool, it depends on how you use it,” said a young content creator. “Demonizing it is not the solution, but rather educating people about conscious use.”
Towards regulation?
According to sources close to the government, Rama is considering the introduction of specific legislation to regulate the use of social networks in the country. Among the hypotheses under consideration would be age restrictions, educational campaigns in schools and greater control over published content.
The debate over TikTok reflects a broader issue affecting many contemporary societies: how to balance technological progress with the protection of cultural and social values. In Albania, as in the rest of the world, the answer to this question will be decisive for the future of the new generations.
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