The Syrian National Council - the country's unofficial opposition in exile - has opened its headquarters in the Turkish city of Istanbul, as it seeks to overcome a perceived lack of recognition, unity, and effectiveness in backing Syria's nearly nine-month uprising.

Critics say the group is failing to represent and protect the Syrian people by not taking a stronger stance against the government's deadly crackdown on protesters.

According to Samir Nashar, of the SNC's executive branch, all members of the council have agreed that the "regime has to go, that there should be no dialogue with the regime, and protesters should be protected."

Anita McNaught reports from Istanbul, where she visited the SNC's new office.