Jordan's TikTok ban enters fifth month

TikTok, the popular social media platform, has been banned in Jordan for over five months, following concerns regarding harmful content and user misconduct.

In an interview with a TikTok spokesperson in late January, Roya learned that the platform remains dedicated to improving its safety policies and tools, with a firm commitment to creating a safe and positive environment for its global community.

Despite this commitment, TikTok will continue to be banned in Jordan unless the platform fully complies with all regulations and laws, as previously stated by the authorities. The ban was initially announced by the Cybercrime Unit on Dec. 16, 2022, after certain TikTok users shared videos promoting false information and acts of violence.

The unit attributed the ban to TikTok's failure to effectively address harmful content and misuse by users, resulting in the dissemination of violent content, including hate speech, incitement to vandalism, attacks on law enforcement agencies and property, and road blockades in Jordan.

Since the ban's implementation, the Jordanian government has engaged in ongoing technical and legal discussions with TikTok. However, as of March, a government source revealed that TikTok had not yet fulfilled any of Jordan's requests to lift the ban and restore the mobile application.

The source, who wished to remain anonymous, emphasized the government's intention to introduce guidelines for video uploads on the platform, similar to those in place on other platforms. It is important to note that Jordan's concerns are not solely focused on TikTok but primarily revolve around the lack of control over the shared videos and their potential negative impact on society.

As the discussions between TikTok and Jordan continue, it remains to be seen whether the platform will implement the necessary measures to address the government's concerns and enable the ban to be lifted.

The Jordanian authorities aim to establish a framework that ensures responsible and safe use of the platform, safeguarding the interests and well-being of society as a whole.