Rates of Internet access in Lebanon continued to grow in 1999. There are an estimated 50,000 users and more than 25 Lebanese Internet service providers. Many cybercafes can be found in Beirut. Internet access does not appear to be closely monitored or controlled by the state. Protests were banned in 1993 after a demonstration against the Oslo Middle East peace accords turned violent.
Public assemblies require government approval, which is frequently denied to Christian groups.
Freedom of religion is generally respected. Citizens may travel abroad freely, though internal travel is restricted in certain areas under Israeli or Hezbollah control. Syrian troops maintain checkpoints in areas under their control. The government does not extend legal rights to some 180,000 stateless persons who live mainly in disputed border areas. In January the government announced a plan to lift travel restrictions imposed on Lebanon s Palestinian population.