Introduction
There are issues that, beyond their topicality, challenge us about the state of our society. Today, let’s talk to you about a phenomenon that is silently eroding the foundations of our values and threatening the future of our youth in French-speaking Africa: moral deviance on social media, particularly on TikTok. This isn’t just an observation; it’s a wake-up call. Because what’s happening before our eyes is nothing less than a loss of direction, a normalization of indecency, and a threat to our collective morality.
The Trivialization of Obscenity
If you’ve recently scrolled through TikTok or browsed social media feeds, you’ve probably been struck by the proliferation of shocking content. Nudity challenges, vulgar videos, suggestive dances, degrading remarks, etc. Where have decency, modesty, and restraint gone, those values that once made our African societies proud? Today, the glorification of exhibitionism and moral recklessness is taking precedence over education and common sense. And while some are outraged, others are becoming accustomed to it, thus trivializing behaviours that, just yesterday, would have been unanimously condemned. What we tolerate today will become the norm tomorrow and therein lies the real danger.
A Youth in Disarray
The most tragic aspect of this collective decline is the impact on the youngest. A 10-year-old child today can stumble upon inappropriate content in just a few clicks. TikTok, in particular, with its algorithm designed to maximize engagement, promotes the rapid spread of shocking content. The severe lack of parental supervision and the absence of effective regulations leave these young people helpless in the face of an endless stream of obscene content.
Impunity in the Face of Abuse
What makes this situation even more unbearable is the impunity that surrounds it. The authors of this obscene content are rarely punished. Worse, some become role models, accumulating thousands of followers and benefiting from increased visibility. This impunity sends a dangerous message: anything goes, as long as it generates buzz. But how far are we willing to go? How far will we let this downward spiral continue before saying “stop.”
An Urgent Call to Action
Faced with this situation, it is no longer enough to be outraged. It is imperative to act, and quickly. Parents, educators, governments: it’s time to regulate TikTok and other social media, demand stricter filters, and implement a genuine moderation policy. As for users themselves, it’s time to adopt a critical mindset about what they consume and share.
Conclusion
Youth is the future of Africa. It is urgent to restore collective morality by regulating these platforms and educating users about the dangers of current abuses. Depravity must not become the norm. It’s time to say stop and act together for better-directed youth and a more balanced society.
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