( CNN ) -- This month , Inside the Middle East travels to Beirut , the cosmopolitan , multi-lingual capital of Lebanon . Beirut 's popularity among expatriate residents has not waned , despite the increased fears of instability spilling over from the conflict in neighboring Syria . Host Arwa Damon explores Beirut , discovering why the `` Paris of the Middle East '' is so appealing to foreign residents of the city . Expats may be flocking to Beirut , but not everyone is welcome . Many economic migrants in Beirut struggle with racism on a daily basis . Lebanon 's minister of tourism says the country has implemented a zero-tolerance policy towards racism -- but Damon finds out why it 's going to take more than legislation to change the attitude of the Lebanese . We also explore the rights of women in Lebanon , a nation traditionally known for its tolerance towards the opposite sex . Women 's rights activists say they have a false sense of freedom . There are few laws in Lebanon protecting women from domestic abuse and hardly any representation in parliament , but some Lebanese women are now demanding change . Finally , the program meets the alternative rock band Mashrou ' Laila , a group of seven 20-somethings living in Beirut . Mashrou ' Laila has become a major hit in Lebanon by taking on taboo topics in their music , singing about everything from politics to homosexuality . SHOWTIMES . Wednesday February 6 : 1030 , 1730 ; Saturday February 9 : 0530 , 1930 ; Sunday February 10 : 1330 ; Saturday February 16 : 1330 ; Sunday February 17 : 0530 , 1930 .
IME discovers why Lebanon 's capital is such a popular choice among expatriates . Arwa Damon talks to a female population in pursuit of better women 's rights . Hit Lebanese rock band Mashrou'Laila talks to IME about their popular music .