Nepal Lifts TikTok Ban After Nine Months

Nepal has lifted its nine-month ban on TikTok, a decision made by the Cabinet after the company agreed to cooperate with local law enforcement to address content regulation and related cyber crimes. The ban, which was enacted last November due to concerns over social harmony and misuse of the platform, had sparked public outcry and economic hardship for many content creators who relied on TikTok for their livelihoods. TikTok, which had approximately 2.2 million users in Nepal at the time of the ban, pledged to comply with new regulations set by the Ministry of Information Technology and Communication. The government has also established conditions for the platform, aiming to enhance digital security and promote tourism. Advocates for free speech have hailed the decision as a victory, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open communication channels in a democratic society. This move aligns with a broader trend, as TikTok faces scrutiny in various countries over data privacy and safety concerns.