Tens of thousands of Lebanese protesters have joined hands in order to form a nationwide human chain, running from the south to the north of the country to symbolize newfound national unity.

Julie Tegho Bou Nassif, a history professor and one of the organizers, said: "The idea behind this human chain is to show an image of a Lebanon which, from north to south, rejects any sectarian affiliation. There is no political demand today, we only want to send a message by simply holding hands under the Lebanese flag."

Human chain marked the eleventh day of anti-government protests which began on 17 October.

Although the prime minister, Saad Hariri, announced a package of economic changes that aims to revive an economy, protesters have accused the political elite of desperately attempting to save their jobs and have stuck to their demands for deep change.

ILKHA