Venice Protests Erupt Over Bezos-Sanchez Wedding

Protests have erupted in Venice ahead of the wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez, with activists expressing opposition to the privatization of the city. The three-day event is expected to take place at iconic locations in Venice.

Activist groups denounce that Venice is being transformed into a private entertainment space, which has negative impacts on daily life, the environment, and housing. The organization "No Space for Bezos" has taken action, with its members stating that the event will close parts of the city, hinder the movement of locals, and create environmental concerns due to the use of boats in the canals.

The protests are also linked to issues such as affordable housing and the decline of the local population in the historic center of Venice. According to Italian media, the wedding reception will occupy the entire island of San Giorgio, opposite St. Mark's Square.

Activists such as Alice Baccili and Federica Toninelli expressed their opposition to the way the city is being treated, emphasizing the impact of overtourism and the need to protect the services and quality of life of residents.

The guest list is expected to include personalities such as Oprah Winfrey, Mick Jagger, Ivanka Trump, Katy Perry, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Eva Longoria. The couple is expected to host a party on Jeff Bezos' super yacht, worth approximately $500 million, which will dock in the port of Venice.

Municipal authorities defend the international exposure that the city will receive, while the reactions of residents remain strong.