OUR TAKEThe lifting of the TikTok ban in Nepal comes amid a global debate surrounding the regulation of social media platforms and concerns regarding user privacy and national security. Several countries have taken steps to either partially or completely ban TikTok over similar issues. Nepal’s decision to lift the ban following the company’s commitment to collaboration with law enforcement agencies sets a positive precedent for addressing online safety challenges through public-private partnerships.–Rebecca Xu, BTW reporter
What happened
Nepal has lifted a nine-month ban on TikTok on Thursday, the popular Chinese-owned video-sharing app, after reaching an agreement with the company to address concerns related to cybercrime and inappropriate content. The ban had been imposed due to disruptions to social harmony and goodwill caused by the platform. However, following negotiations between TikTok’s parent companyByteDanceand Nepalese authorities, the app is now set to return to the market under certain conditions.
The decision to lift the ban was made at a cabinet meeting after TikTok agreed to cooperate with Nepal’s law enforcement agencies to address issues related to TikTok-related crimes and regulate its content. The government’s move was seen as an acknowledgement of TikTok’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s police in tacklingcybercrimeand ensuring responsible content moderation. This partnership is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing online safety and law enforcement efforts in the country.
Nepal had previously banned TikTok in November, citing concerns over its misuse, particularly in relation to cybercrime. Reports indicated that Nepal had witnessed over 1,600 TikTok-related cybercrime cases over a four-year period, leading to growing concerns over the platform’s impact on society. The ban had prompted protests from users who viewed TikTok as not only a source of income but also a platform for free speech and creative expression.
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Why it’s important
TikTok’s return to Nepal is expected to benefit the platform’s 2.2 million users in the country, as well as the wider online community. With TikTok agreeing to work closely with the Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police, this partnership aims to enhance law enforcement capabilities and facilitate the prompt identification and apprehension of offenders involved in cyber-related crimes.
By establishing a focal unit to support theCyber Bureauround the clock, TikTok intends to address the misuse of its platform and help prevent incidents such as suicides linked to inappropriate content. As TikTok re-enters the Nepalese market, the platform is expected to play a key role in promoting creativity, free expression, and responsible online behaviour while contributing to the overall digital landscape of the country.
