Skip to main content

How Lebanon is setting the standard for a new social contract in the Middle East

Sectarianism gives way to economics and governance.
Demonstrators carry Lebanese flags during an anti-government protest in the mainly Druze town of Hasbaya, Lebanon October 25, 2019. REUTERS/Aziz Taher - RC1D8675FAA0

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri’s ambitious 24-point reform package and President Michel Aoun’s offer to meet with protesters have so far done little to quiet the demonstrations in Lebanon, which have entered their ninth day. 

What started as a protest of a tax on WhatsApp has morphed into a movement of mostly young people calling for a full overhaul of the government. 

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.