Gabon in talks with Meta and TikTok over social media ban
## Gabon Engages with Meta and TikTok Over Social Media Suspension
Gabon Engages with Meta and TikTok Over Social Media Suspension
On Thursday, the Gabonese communication ministry announced ongoing discussions with Meta and TikTok regarding the recent suspension of social media platforms in the country. The suspension, enacted earlier this month, was attributed to concerns about online content contributing to societal conflict and division.
The media regulator cited the failure of these companies to address repeated warnings regarding defamatory, violent, and pornographic content, as noted by Deputy Presidency Spokeswoman Jennyfer Melodie Sambat on Monday.
TikTok has reached out to the media regulator, emphasizing its commitment to fostering a safe digital environment that respects the rights of Gabonese citizens. This indicates a willingness to cooperate towards resolving the issues raised.
On Thursday, the Gabonese communication ministry announced ongoing discussions with Meta and TikTok regarding the recent suspension of social media platforms in the country.
The suspension has faced criticism from various quarters, with some labeling it as disproportionate and unconstitutional. Despite the suspension, there has been a significant surge in VPN usage, as evidenced by a 60,000 percent increase in downloads reported by VPN provider Proton.
Authorities have clarified that the current measure is a suspension aimed at achieving improved regulation, rather than a permanent ban.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
