Nepal has made the decision to ban the popular social media app TikTok, citing concerns over its disruptive impact on social harmony. The move comes in response to a new rule that requires social media companies to establish liaison offices in the country. Several other nations, including India, have already banned TikTok, while individual states and even the UK Parliament have also taken action against the app. The ban will be implemented soon, although an exact date has not yet been provided.
TikTok, which boasts over a billion monthly users, has faced scrutiny from authorities worldwide due to concerns that user data could be transferred to the Chinese government. Its parent company, ByteDance, has consistently denied these allegations. Nepal’s decision to ban TikTok comes after an increasing number of cybercrime cases related to the app have been reported in the country. According to reports, there have been over 1,600 TikTok-related cybercrime cases in Nepal over the past four years.
Although TikTok is still trailing behind platforms like Facebook and Instagram in terms of overall user numbers, its popularity among younger demographics exceeds that of its competitors. The BBC Media Action report on media usage in Nepal highlights TikTok as the third most widely used platform in the country. While YouTube and Facebook are prevalent across all age groups, TikTok dominates among users aged 16 to 24, with over 80% of young social media users utilizing the app.
This decision by Nepal is not the first instance of a TikTok ban. Pakistan has temporarily banned the app on multiple occasions since October 2020, and Indonesia recently shut down TikTok’s online shopping service. Moreover, the US state of Montana became the first in the country to ban TikTok, while India has banned TikTok and numerous other Chinese apps.
The move to ban TikTok in Nepal has generated some opposition, with critics questioning the impact on freedom of expression and the potential for alternative platforms to arise. However, the government has prioritized social harmony and the protection of citizens’ data in making this decision. TikTok’s lack of transparency and its alleged ties to the Chinese government have raised concerns globally, leading to increased scrutiny and regulatory measures.
It is important to note that the ban on TikTok should be seen in the context of broader debates surrounding data privacy, national security, and the influence of foreign tech companies. This decision highlights the need for stronger regulations and oversight to address these complex issues. As social media continues to play an integral role in people’s lives, governments must balance the benefits of connectivity and expression with safeguarding societal harmony and protecting user data.
