In Albania, the protection of children and adolescents in the digital space has taken on a new urgency following the tragic murder of a 14-year-old by a peer in November of last year. This shocking event sparked a nationwide debate on preventing all forms of violence, particularly on social media. Parents, children, and representatives of state institutions and non-governmental organizations have expressed concerns to Voice of America about the increasing prevalence of social media-related violence among minors in 2024. This underscores the pressing need for coordinated efforts from families, schools, and society to address the issue.
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A Comprehensive Action Plan
The government’s initiatives extend beyond the Ministry of Education. One notable project involves limiting TikTok usage and launching a “smart city” initiative in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates. This includes deploying intelligent cameras in several cities, including schools, to detect risks such as weapon possession. Additionally, digital information centers are being piloted in schools, staffed by journalism students trained to analyze social media content and identify trends that fuel aggression and bullying.
“These projects go beyond education. For example, journalism students will train teachers to process information from social media, recognize fake news, and counter online aggression,” said Gerti Janaqi, General Director of the Agency for Quality Assurance in Pre-University Education.
Rising Cyberbullying Reports
The Children’s Rights Center reported over 400 cases of cyberbullying and hate speech on its platform, iSigurt.al, in 2024—three times more than the previous year. Altin Hazizaj, the center’s director, highlighted the critical role of parental oversight in ensuring digital safety.
“Lack of parental control means children are exposed to harmful online content. A phone, tablet, or computer connected to the internet, if unmonitored, poses significant risks. Today, the danger isn’t just on the streets; it’s online,” said Hazizaj.
Parents and grandparents echoed these concerns, emphasizing their responsibility in monitoring children’s internet use. “Parents need to be vigilant. Even young children are exposed to screens without supervision,” said Fatbardha Bakiri, a grandmother of a schoolchild.
Government Measures and Challenges
Prime Minister Edi Rama announced a temporary one-year ban on TikTok as part of the government’s digital safety plan. However, this decision has raised questions about its effectiveness. Critics argue that banning TikTok may drive children to other, potentially more dangerous platforms like Instagram or Snapchat.
“TikTok’s algorithm promotes harmful content outside China, unlike in its home country where educational and cultural content dominates. Why should we allow it to spread negativity here?” Rama said during a meeting with parents in late 2024.
Some NGOs and students have expressed skepticism. “The solution isn’t banning TikTok but educating children and parents about digital safety,” said Hazizaj.
Meanwhile, alternative platforms like Clapper are gaining popularity among Albanian youths. Experts caution that shifting to new platforms doesn’t eliminate risks.
A Collaborative Effort
Despite differing opinions on specific measures, stakeholders agree that combating online violence requires a comprehensive societal effort. State institutions, parents, NGOs, and the media must work together to create a safer digital environment for Albania’s children and adolescents.