DUBAI, 23 January (IRIN) - Political observers often cite Lebanon as an example of freedom and democracy amidst other non-democratic states in the region. They point to the country's relatively free press, and the fact that no major political parties have been banned. Consequently, Lebanon's political landscape has not been dominated by one family or party, but by a variety of faces and parties.

Still, according to Oussama Safa, General Director of the Lebanese Centre for Policy Studies (LCPS), "Lebanon is a free country, [but] not a very democratic one." It is sometimes described as a confessional parliamentary democracy, with power shared among the country's 17 religious communities, as well as among those not affiliated to any religion. The political system is based on a 1943 National Covenant, which stipulates - among other things - that parliamentary seats are divided according to a 1932 national census. So, if Greek Catholics make up 5 percent of the country's population, they are entitled to 5 percent of the current 128 parliamentary seats.

Pierre and Hadi Katra announce their first appearance in the United States and New York (NY) Fashion Week this February 3rd-4th at Grand Hyatt. After long negotiations with International Fashion Shows Headquarters in Switzerland, the Katras have agreed to present an exclusive collection for the organization's special fundraiser gala."We have personally met with Sianetta Sunnasee of International Fashion Shows,  and we find her intent to be sincere and true," says Pierre Katra. "Our group is designing an exclusive collection, specifically for the New York Fashion Week event.