The state of emergency in Beirut

The critical issues encompass an outrageous negligence of the dangerous material, a suspicious handling of the investigation as well as a lack of support to those affected by the tragedy. In addition to that, the Lebanese parliament recently voted in favor of extending a state of emergency across Beirut until August 21, incriminating  once more the government.

Why is that law considered highly dangerous?

Firstly, the 52 Decree (1967) states that after Parliament's approval of the cabinet’s declaration of the emergency state there is no maximum period of time it can be in effect.

Furthermore, it gives the Lebanese Army sweeping power to implement measures, with other security agencies at their disposal. 

But what types of power are we talking about? 

The absolute authority to enforce home searches without notice, issue house arrests, ban gatherings, deport suspects, impose curfews and more importantly censor press if considered as a threat. 

Civilians violating the law are tried in military courts. Any means used and considered “necessary” are legal. Those found guilty face fines or prison sentences.

Not knowing to what extent the Lebanese Security Forces will use these powers, there are obvious concerns that further repression would stifle basic human rights. This especially applies to the rights to free assembly, expression, and press; all continue to worsen in Lebanon through intimidating legal measures and physical violence.

Security forces have responded to last protests with far more force, resorting to excessive tear gas, rubber bullets and birdshot pellets, and even live ammunition (the victims include more than 14 media workers).