As of September 6, 2024, TikTok is once again operational in Nepal. This decision comes after the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) issued an official notice confirming the lifting of the months-long ban on the popular social media platform. According to the NTA, all internet service providers and mobile network operators have been directed to unblock TikTok, allowing users across all networks to access the platform.
This marks a change in direction from the initial decision to ban TikTok on November 13, 2023, citing concerns over its role in disrupting social harmony and spreading harmful content. Following intense discussions between the government and TikTok representatives, and an agreement to implement a series of safety and compliance measures, the platform has now been reinstated, ending a 10-month long block.
Looking back: TikTok ban and its reasons
Nepal initially banned TikTok after growing concerns over its negative social impacts, including promoting content that fueled social divisions and endangered young users. Dangerous trends, misinformation, and inappropriate content contributed to public unrest, prompting the government to act. The Cabinet Meeting on November 13, 2023, was when the government decided to enforce a complete ban, positioning itself as a protector of public interest and societal values.
The government’s decision to block TikTok was portrayed as a protective measure to safeguard the nation’s youth and maintain societal harmony.
Since the ban, there has been significant public debate about the role of social media in society and the balance between regulation and freedom of expression. The move sparked discussions on digital rights, internet governance, and the responsibilities of tech companies in controlling harmful content. During this period, TikTok worked to enhance its content moderation policies and engage with governments worldwide to align its operations with local regulations.
Negotiations and conditions for reinstatement
While the ban sparked public debate both ways of the isle, negotiations continued behind the scenes. After months of deliberations and adjustments, the government finally approved TikTok’s return under strict guidelines.
According to government spokesperson and Minister of Communications, Prithvi Subba Gurung, TikTok must agree to several key terms to ensure compliance with local laws and contribute positively to Nepalese society.
- Registration and Compliance: TikTok must register with the Ministry of Information Technology and Communications according to the provisions of the ‘Social Media Operation Guidelines 2080’. This registration ensures that the platform operates under the oversight of the Nepalese authorities, facilitating better monitoring and regulation of content.
- Point of Contact: The company is required to establish a point of contact in Nepal. This local presence is essential for facilitating direct communication with the government, addressing any issues swiftly, and ensuring the platform adheres to local norms and regulations.
- Promotion of Tourism: One of the conditions includes TikTok’s role in promoting tourism in Nepal. Given the platform’s massive reach, the government sees an opportunity to leverage TikTok for positive national publicity and boost the tourism sector.
- Digital Literacy and Security: TikTok must support initiatives aimed at enhancing digital literacy and security in Nepal. This includes educational campaigns on safe internet use and awareness programs to prevent digital crimes and misuse of the platform.
- Support for Public Education: Another stipulation involves TikTok’s contribution to improving public education by supporting digital and information technology-based learning. This aligns with the government’s broader goals of modernizing education and equipping young people with essential digital skills.
- Content Moderation and Language Filters: A critical requirement for lifting the ban is the assurance that TikTok will implement robust content moderation policies, especially focusing on Nepali and indigenous languages. This measure aims to prevent the spread of hate speech, abusive content, and any material that could incite social discord before they go viral.
These conditions reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring that social media platforms operate responsibly and contribute positively to the community. By setting these standards, Nepal is not only safeguarding its citizens but also establishing a framework that could serve as a model for other countries grappling with similar issues.
September 6: TikTok’s return and immediate impact
Effective yesterday, TikTok is available on all networks in Nepal, marking the official end of its ban. Following the cabinet’s decision in late August 2024 and final clearance from the NTA as of yesterday (September 6, 2024), the platform is expected to gradually regain its massive user base within Nepal.
Implications for other nations
Nepal’s decision to lift the ban on TikTok with these conditions could certainly have wider impact as well for other countries that have imposed similar restrictions on the platform. Countries like India and the United States have taken strict measures against TikTok, citing national security and privacy concerns. Nepal’s approach, however, offers a middle ground, balancing the need for regulation with the benefits of digital engagement and connectivity.
This balanced state could influence global policy discussions on digital regulation. By setting clear guidelines and promoting cooperation with tech companies, Nepal is demonstrating that it is possible to achieve a win-win situation. Other countries might look to Nepal’s example as a blueprint for negotiating with social media platforms, ensuring that they operate in a manner that respects local laws and cultural sensitivities while allowing for the benefits of digital connectivity.
Musk’s defiant response
Elon Musk’s (founder of X) recent confrontation with Brazil over similar issues offers an intriguing counterpoint to Nepal’s approach. While Musk get around Brazil’s Supreme Court ruling through his Starlink satellite internet service, Nepal’s approach stands in contrast as one based on dialogue and negotiation with the social media giants. Both cases reflect the growing global challenge of regulating online platforms while respecting freedom of expression.
Future outlook
As Nepal welcomes this new chapter with TikTok, there are lessons to be learned and steps to be cautiously followed. The government’s proactive stance in setting conditions for the platform’s operation sets a precedent for digital governance in the region. Moving forward, it will be crucial to monitor how effectively these conditions are implemented and whether they lead to meaningful changes in content moderation and platform responsibility.
Furthermore, this development highlights the importance of a collaborative approach between governments and tech companies. By working together, both parties can create a safer, more inclusive digital environment that respects user rights and promotes positive engagement. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Nepal’s experience with TikTok could serve as a valuable case study in the ongoing dialogue about digital freedom, regulation, and the role of social media in our lives.
Nepal’s decision to reinstate TikTok, with strict conditions for its operation, represents a milestone in the country’s digital governance journey. It also offers a template for other nations facing similar tricky situations when it comes to social media regulation. The case highlights the power of constructive dialogue between governments and tech companies and sets a new standard for responsible digital engagement. With TikTok back in action, all eyes will be on Nepal to see how effectively the agreed-upon terms are implemented and whether they lead to a more responsible and secure digital space.
