Activists from Extinction Rebellion staged a protest at the Sanremo music festival, breaching security barriers to reach the blue carpet of the Teatro Ariston during the star-studded event. Their aim was to draw attention to environmental issues, specifically what they describe as 'ecocide' and the greenwashing practices of major festival sponsors. This demonstration was not the first of its kind at the festival, as activists have attempted similar actions over the past years, although none have significantly disrupted the event itself.

A group of about ten activists managed to evade security and brandished signs featuring slogans, some of which cleverly referenced the titles of songs competing in the festival. One such line read, “Stella Stellina, ecocide is approaching,” linking back to a song by contestant Ermal Meta. The protest was conducted without prior announcement, a tactical decision meant to avoid interventions from the authorities and ensure visibility for their cause.

While the protest underscores the continuing rise of environmental activism in Italy and around the world, it also raises questions about the intersection of popular culture and social issues. The Sanremo music festival, a significant cultural event in Italy, serves as a platform for various societal grievances, with activists using its visibility to amplify their messages. Though previous protests have not caused disruptions, they contribute to an ongoing dialogue about the responsibilities of public figures and corporations in addressing climate change and social injustices.