KYRGYZSTAN SET TO SUSPEND ACCESS TO TIKTOK CITING EFFECTS ON CHILD DEVELOPMENT

Thu 18 April 2024:

Authorities in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday announced a temporary suspension of access to the popular TikTok platform.

Following a request from the Kyrgyz State Committee for National Security, the Digital Development Ministry has decided to implement restrictions on access to TikTok by April 18.

Upon reviewing the request, the ministry found it appropriate and feasible, subsequently instructing national internet service providers to restrict access to the TikTok platform.

“It should be noted that TikTok engages users in a virtual realm of brief clips, and subsequent to viewing these clips, teenagers attempt to replicate certain actions depicted in these clips, some of which endanger their lives,” the Culture Ministry said.

This decision comes amid growing concerns from various public organizations over the adverse effects of TikTok on the mental development and health of children. Efforts have been made over the past year to bring attention to these concerns and advocate for action from the government.

Legislation currently pending in the US Congress also seeks to ban TikTok or force it to sell to American owners.

TikTok did not immediately respond to the move, but previously has said it has safeguards to moderate content and protect minors.

Access to information through social media and the general media has become a hot topic in Kyrgyzstan after a series of moves by the government that many argue are aimed at stifling free speech.

Kyrgyzstan’s civil society and independent press have been among the most robust in Central Asia, though the landscape has shifted due to an escalating government crackdown.

Efforts to regulate social media and bloggers persist, with some bloggers being arrested and constraints imposed on writing critical posts.

Over 20 individuals, including NGO leaders and activists, are currently facing trials on serious charges for their opposition to a contentious border agreement between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan from the previous year.

The annual media-freedom rankings published by the Reporters Without Borders watchdog in July showed Kyrgyzstan falling 50 places to 122nd out of 180 countries.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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