Germany’s Scholz Joins TikTok

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has embraced the digital era by joining the popular social media platform TikTok.

In a move reflecting the evolving landscape of political communication, Scholz debuted on the platform on Monday, following in the footsteps of other world leaders.

A short video uploaded to his TikTok account provides viewers with a glimpse into his official workspace, featuring his office with glass windows.

The camera then shifts to capture the chancellor seated at his desk. Scholz humorously addressed his arrival on the platform on X, formerly Twitter, stating, "I won't dance. Promise."

Steffen Hebestreit, the spokesperson for the chancellor, emphasized that the TikTok channel aims to engage citizens who increasingly turn to the platform for political information and discussions.

Hebestreit elaborated that the account will offer insights into the everyday workings of the government, providing a behind-the-scenes look at governance.

The move follows the footsteps of US President Joe Biden, who joined TikTok earlier this year. However, TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, faces scrutiny globally over national security concerns.

The US House of Representatives recently passed a bill threatening to ban the app unless ByteDance divests its stake due to fears of Chinese government influence over user data.

Several European countries, including Estonia and Norway, have already prohibited the use of TikTok on government devices due to cybersecurity apprehensions.

Moreover, institutions such as the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the EU Council restrict staff from using the app on official phones.

In other developments, Scholz is scheduled for a diplomatic visit to China starting this Saturday, April 13.

During his three-day trip, Scholz will visit key cities like Shanghai and Beijing, culminating in meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on April 16.