TikTok bans LGBTQ+ hashtags

Video social networking service TikTok has restricted LGBT-related hashtags in certain countries.

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) has revealed that LGBTQ+- related hashtags are “shadow-banned” in Russia, Jordan and Bosnia and in at least eight languages.

A “shadow ban” means that a search for a particular hashtag turns up no content.

The ASPI reports that certain “shadow-banned” hashtags are “gay” in Russian and Arabic, and “transgender” in Arabic.

The China-based company said that many of the bans were to be in accordance with local laws. In Russia, for instance, while homosexuality is legal, LGBT “propaganda” is banned.

However, the Guardian revealed that many LGBTQ+ hashtags were banned in countries where homosexuality is not illegal.

TikTok also said that many of the terms were used to access pornographic content.

In a June 2030 blog posting TikTok said: “It’s important to us that the LGBTQ+ voices and stories of those who are pushing forward acceptance for all and helping to create a world where everyone has the right to be who they are and love who they love, are shared, seen and heard.”