Nepal Announces Intended Ban on TikTok Over Social Harmony Concerns

In a move reflecting its concern over social cohesion, the government of Nepal has declared its intention to ban TikTok, the widely popular video-sharing app known for its one billion monthly users. The platform has faced restrictions in multiple countries on grounds of alleged data rule violations and its potentially harmful influence on society, especially the younger demographic.

Rationale Behind Nepal's Ban Decision

During a statement issued on Monday, Nepal's Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma, informed the public about the impending technical measures to enforce the ban. Sharma highlighted the use of TikTok to disseminate content that purportedly erodes social harmony, disrupts family dynamics, and strains social relationships. However, specifics triggering the prohibition were not disclosed by the minister.

As the ban announcement spread, TikTok saw a surge in content related to the decision, with videos garnering thousands of views. Pushback from certain political figures was inevitable. Gagan Thapa of the Nepali Congress party voiced concern that the government might be constraining freedom of expression under the guise of regulation. Thapa argued that while regulation could curb social media abuse, the wholesale closure of such platforms is erroneous.

Global Social Media Regulation and the Growth of TikTok

This decision takes place not long after Nepal required social media companies to establish local offices, marking a step towards tighter control over digital platforms within its borders. Ranked as the sixth most-used social network globally, TikTok particularly stands out for its rapidly growing young user base, even as it competes with Meta Platforms, Inc. (META), which houses titans like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram.

Globally, countries are scrutinizing social media's influence on children, with TikTok at the forefront of this examination. ByteDance, the parent Chinese company of TikTok, has faced accusations of being influenced by Beijing, allegations that the firm consistently refutes.

It's worth mentioning that Meta Platforms, Inc., headquartered in Menlo Park, California, continues to lead with its trio of platforms. Despite lagging behind TikTok in terms of growth among younger audiences, META remains a dominant force in connecting people globally through an array of devices.

Nepal, TikTok, Ban