47 images Created 28 Jan 2020
The Lebanese Revolution of October 17
On October 17, the Lebanese cabinet announced a tax on WhatsApp calls, that’re used widely in Lebanon.
Coming amid a looming economic crisis of Lebanon’s infrastructure that remains decrepit almost three decades since the end of its civil war, the announcement was deemed by many as a step too far.
Thousands took to the streets in Beirut and other Lebanese cities, some chanting “the people demand the fall of the regime”.
Security forces fired teargas to disperse the protesting crowds. Hundreds of protestors also blocked major highways and set refuse bins and tires alight. The Lebanese economy has been unstable, stagnant and seemingly always on the verge of collapse for as long as I can remember.
The youth had very little hope and many travelled abroad after graduation seeking stable employment opportunities. It is clear that the protesters are not content merely with cosmetic changes as they want the whole system to be uprooted.
For years, Lebanese have been held hostage to sectarian-driven politics. But now, I believe the Lebanese are ready for a full-fledged secular and liberal society.
Most Lebanese flew the flags of their political parties, but today all you see is a sea of white, red, and green—the colors of the Lebanese flag. I never thought I would see so many people chant against their own political leaders—unchaining themselves from their sectarian affiliations.
I spent the first three weeks of the October 17 Revolution in Beirut and this is what my lens captured.
Coming amid a looming economic crisis of Lebanon’s infrastructure that remains decrepit almost three decades since the end of its civil war, the announcement was deemed by many as a step too far.
Thousands took to the streets in Beirut and other Lebanese cities, some chanting “the people demand the fall of the regime”.
Security forces fired teargas to disperse the protesting crowds. Hundreds of protestors also blocked major highways and set refuse bins and tires alight. The Lebanese economy has been unstable, stagnant and seemingly always on the verge of collapse for as long as I can remember.
The youth had very little hope and many travelled abroad after graduation seeking stable employment opportunities. It is clear that the protesters are not content merely with cosmetic changes as they want the whole system to be uprooted.
For years, Lebanese have been held hostage to sectarian-driven politics. But now, I believe the Lebanese are ready for a full-fledged secular and liberal society.
Most Lebanese flew the flags of their political parties, but today all you see is a sea of white, red, and green—the colors of the Lebanese flag. I never thought I would see so many people chant against their own political leaders—unchaining themselves from their sectarian affiliations.
I spent the first three weeks of the October 17 Revolution in Beirut and this is what my lens captured.
