KATHMANDU: In a significant move that highlights the growing influence of digital platforms, the Government of Nepal has officially lifted the ban on the popular social network site TikTok. This decision comes after months of deliberation and negotiations between TikTok and the Nepalese authorities, marking a turning point in the country’s approach to regulating social media.
The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) has confirmed that internet service providers (ISPs) across Nepal have been directed to restore access to TikTok. As a result, millions of TikTok users in Nepal can once again access the platform, which had been blocked since November 12, 2023, following a government decision led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal.
TikTok’s Commitment to Compliance
The lifting of the ban was not an arbitrary decision. According to sources within the MoCIT, TikTok had made significant efforts to address the concerns raised by the Nepalese government. In a letter sent to the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) on November 16, 2023, and later to the MoCIT on December 6, 2023, TikTok outlined a five-point commitment to ensuring that its platform aligns with Nepal’s legal and ethical standards.
Among the key points in TikTok’s commitment was the assurance that the platform would implement stricter content moderation policies to prevent the spread of misinformation, harmful content, and fake news. The company also promised to enhance its algorithm to better detect and filter out content that violates Nepalese law, particularly concerning the spread of false information.
The Ministry’s decision to lift the ban is closely tied to these commitments. A high-ranking official from MoCIT stated, “We have received assurances from TikTok that they will implement the necessary measures to ensure that the platform is safe and compliant with our regulations. As a result, we have instructed the ISPs to unblock the platform, allowing the general public to resume using TikTok.”
Restoring Access and Ensuring Safety
As of today, ISPs across Nepal have restored access to TikTok, and users have already begun to engage with the platform once again. However, the government has emphasized that this access comes with a renewed focus on safety and compliance.
The NTA has been directed to manage an algorithm that can proactively detect and mitigate the spread of false and fake information on TikTok. This algorithmic oversight is expected to play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the platform in Nepal and ensuring that the content shared aligns with the country’s legal framework.
“The algorithm will serve as a first line of defense against the spread of misinformation,” said the MoCIT source. “By leveraging advanced technology, we aim to create a safer digital environment for our citizens while allowing them to enjoy the benefits of social media.”
The Road to Reconciliation
The ban on TikTok had sparked widespread debate in Nepal, with many users expressing frustration over the loss of access to a platform that had become an integral part of their daily lives. TikTok, known for its short-form videos and viral trends, had garnered a massive user base in Nepal, particularly among the youth.
The decision to ban the platform was initially driven by concerns over its role in spreading misinformation and harmful content. The government’s stance was clear: social media platforms must adhere to national regulations and ensure that their operations do not undermine social stability or public safety.
However, TikTok’s proactive engagement with the Nepalese authorities and its commitment to addressing these concerns played a pivotal role in reversing the ban. The platform’s willingness to comply with local laws and implement necessary changes demonstrates a growing recognition among global tech companies of the importance of working closely with national governments.