Protests spread in Syrian towns and cities
Protests have been staged in towns and cities across Syria, including the capital Damascus, a day after the government announced limited changes.
Thousands have demonstrated, calling for more freedom, with protests reported in Banias, Latakia, Hama and Homs.
In Deraa protesters claimed around 20 people were shot dead after a statue of the former president, Hafiz al-Assad, was set alight.
In Damascus three people are reported to have been killed.
The UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has urged the government to respect and protect the rights of citizens.
Lina Sinjab reports.
25 Mar 2011