The online world of young people is changing rapidly, and TikTok is an important source of information for many of them. That is why on Wednesday, December 10, we are launching the TikTok channel @JongAmsterdam to reach young people aged 15 to 18 with reliable information and involve them in what is happening in the city.

At the beginning of 2025, we had YoungWorks, a consultancy specializing in youth, conduct conversations with young people aged 10 to 18 from all districts. In these conversations, TikTok emerged most frequently as the main source of information. Furthermore, the 2025 Large Youth Survey by Mediahuis shows that 68 percent of young people between 15 and 21 actively use TikTok. Of that group, 22 percent even name TikTok as a news source. Youth panels such as Oost Up and Westconnect see the same trend.

Important News Source

TikTok is therefore the online place where many young people get their news. They do not actively search for news but are mainly guided by their feed. Increasingly, young people are presented with news through algorithms, without clarity about what is true and what is not.

Reaching Young People with Reliable Information

With the account @JongAmsterdam, we want to reach young people with information that is clear, reliable, and easy to understand. Think of short explanatory videos on topics that affect young people. For example, mental health, financial worries, vaccinations, safety in the city, and practical matters you need to arrange when you turn 18. At the same time, we hope to hear what is on young peoples minds so that policies can better align with their needs.

Careful Measures

In deploying TikTok, we take careful measures regarding privacy, data collection, and safety, partly following advice from the Amsterdam Personal Data Committee (CPA). We manage the channel entirely via two special phones on which only TikTok is installed. These devices are not connected to municipal systems and are used by a small, authorized team. Furthermore, we do not place advertisements or use search terms.

Evaluation After 18 Months

After one and a half years, an evaluation will determine what works, what can be improved, and whether we will continue the channel.

Online Living World

The TikTok strategy is part of the broader approach Online Living World Youth, which focuses on a healthy and safe digital environment for young people. We also continue to advocate in Europe for stricter rules for social media. Against addictive design, for more transparency about algorithms, and for the development of safe public alternatives.