On Tuesday, several media organizations filed a lawsuit at Albania’s Constitutional Court against the government’s decision to ban TikTok, calling it a violation of freedom of expression and the right to information.

Association of Journalists of Albania, the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN), and the CLE Center submitted a complaint, arguing that the government’s decision is unconstitutional. Isa Myzyraj, Head of the Association of Journalists of Albania, acknowledged issues related to social media, such as violence and discrimination, but stated that the ban on TikTok was arbitrary and infringed on freedom of speech.

Lawyer Franc Terihati from the Center for Legal Empowerment explained that the complaint presents legal arguments showing that the ban violates economic freedom, freedom of speech, press freedom, and the right to information. He emphasized that restrictions on these rights must be legally justified and proportionate, which the government has failed to prove.

Over 20 media and civil society organizations had already opposed the ban, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent for Albania and the region. The decision comes just two months before the May 11, 2025, parliamentary elections, raising concerns that it could limit political activity, especially among first-time voters and emerging political movements.