Following the TikTok child pornography scandal in Lebanon last April, a delegation led by the platform's head of Middle East public relations, Emir Gelen, arrived in Beirut on Monday, at the invitation of caretaker Information Minister Ziad Makari. At a meeting held on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information headquarters, the delegation held talks with Makari, as well as with the caretaker minister of telecommunications, Johnny Corm, and several security officials within the Internal Security Forces (ISF).

Contacted by L'Orient-Le Jour, Makari explained that he took this step to “try to remedy the problems” that misuse of the social network can generate. According to Corm, who was contacted, security officials submitted “specific requests” to TikTok representatives, based on the fight against cybercrime. “The latter showed their willingness to cooperate, expressing intolerance for the misuse of the application,” he said. In addition to the TikTok child pornography ring, a money-laundering ring was dismantled in Lebanon earlier this week.

“The members of the delegation have promised to send us awareness-raising programs and software to inform and train,” said Corm, adding that as soon as they are received, they will be distributed to the relevant ministries, including education, information and social affairs. "These will include tools for launching awareness and prevention campaigns, which will be sent to schools and pupils. Guides for parents on how to ensure their children's digital safety will also be provided,” explained Makari.

In addition to discussing some of the dangers of TikTok and how to remedy them, the participants also discussed ways of using the platform to boost tourism marketing in Lebanon, thanks in particular to the strength of its algorithm. During the visit, the delegation also met with the parliamentary Telecommunications Committee, chaired by Tony Frangieh. A further visit is planned for them as a follow-up, Corm also announced.

16 people have so far been arrested for their involvement in the child pornography network on TikTok. They include a hairdresser, a TikTok-famous ready-to-wear retailer, a dentist, a photographer, a cab driver and a man responsible for transferring money between members of the group. Four minors were also arrested. The charges against the suspects include alleged acts of rape, sexual assault, indecent assault, human trafficking (sexual exploitation) and money laundering (trading in child rape films).

This article originally appeared in French in L'Orient-Le Jour.