The protests have shaken Lebanon since mid-October 2019 when the government announced new savings and wanted to introduce a tax on calls made through apps. The proposal was withdrawn, but the demonstrations grew. People from different backgrounds have come together to overthrow the political elite, which they consider to be corrupt and incompetent.

The first few days of protests were quite violent. Then it became calmer. However, the politicians have failed to take any measures to curb protesters' anger or save the economy. On October 29, Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri announced his departure.

Extended government formation

Forming a new government has taken time, partly because the political groups have failed to agree on the ministerial posts. Over the weekend, stones, rubber bullets and firecrackers were once again hit by the tear-heavy air and over 500 people were injured in clashes between protesters and riot police.

Former Education Minister Hassan Diab, who was appointed new prime minister in December, announced the new government on January 21.

Split population

Lebanon is a secular republic, but all important decisions are characterized - also by law - by the fact that the population is divided into many ethnic groups with different religions. Partying is built around kinship and religious affiliation. Most groups have their own political organizations or parties.

The World Bank warns that the number of poor can rise from one-third to one-half of the population if the political crisis does not end. Lebanon's new government has a tough job if it is to succeed in controlling the ship and avoiding an economic cut, they say.

UN chief António Guterres says he will support reforms to get the heavily indebted country on its feet. The UN also pledges support for "Lebanon's strengthening of its sovereignty, stability and political independence".