Collective Action
Protesters demonstrate in front of the Parliament and scuffle with security forces
Earlier Monday, protesters scuffled with security forces in Downtown Beirut as MPs met to discuss the 2020 budget. Tensions escalated as security forces braced for protests in the area surrounding Nijmeh Square, where Lebanon’s parliament is located. The Lebanese Army and security forces deployed on roads leading to Parliament, pushing away protesters who attempted to advance past reels of barbed wire that had been set up overnight. Protesters then began throwing rocks and fireworks at security forces. Video footage showed some security forces detaining and using their batons to beat protesters. 8 injured people were taken to the hospital and another 19 treated on the scene, the Lebanese Red Cross said.The Lawyers’ Committee for the Defense of Protesters said at least 11 protesters were arrested during the scuffles, many of whom said they were beaten by riot police.