Greenpeace Leads Venice Protests Against Bezos Wedding, Tax Policies

Jeff Bezos' upcoming wedding in Venice has sparked significant protests from local residents and international environmental groups, including Greenpeace and the British group Everyone Hates Elon. Activists have displayed banners in prominent locations like St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, demanding that Bezos pay higher taxes due to his ability to rent the city for his event and highlighting the broader issues of overtourism and the climate crisis. The wedding, set to take place on the island of San Giorgio, has caused disruptions for locals, including restricted access and the booking of water taxis by Bezos and his guests, exacerbating concerns over rising living costs and municipal governance prioritizing tourism over residents' needs. While local authorities and officials welcome the event for its prestige and economic benefits, activists argue it reflects systemic failures and inequality. Despite the protests, Bezos' Earth Fund has been supporting Venetian environmental research, with donations made prior to the demonstrations. Reports also indicate that the wedding venue was reportedly moved due to the protests and regional geopolitical tensions.