Protests and a Splash in Venice: Bezos and Sanchez's Controversial Wedding

Greenpeace and other Venetian organizations protested against Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez's upcoming wedding in Venice, criticizing the impact of overtourism and perceived governance failures. Activists highlighted issues of billionaire taxation and environmental concerns, even as Bezos' Earth Fund supports local research with a significant donation.

Greenpeace joined the wave of protests in Venice on Monday against the anticipated wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez. Demonstrators highlighted taxation issues and environmental implications associated with billionaires.

Early Monday, a group of protesters displayed a large banner in St. Mark's Square declaring, "IF YOU CAN RENT VENICE FOR YOUR WEDDING YOU CAN PAY MORE TAX." Local authorities swiftly removed the banner. This protest was part of a series of anti-Bezos activities, including previous demonstrations at the San Giorgio bell tower and Rialto Bridge.

The "No Space for Bezos" initiative, highlighting municipal governance discrepancies, has united various local groups. As the protests made headlines, Venetian officials supported the wedding while Corila, an environmental research association, revealed a noteworthy donation from Bezos' Earth Fund.

(With inputs from agencies.)