The future of electronic music has a consent problem, and AFEM is proposing a solution: the AFEM AI Principles.

As generative AI continues to evolve at breakneck speed, the Association for Electronic Music (AFEM) has released a foundational set of AI Principles aimed at protecting the rights of music creators. Unveiled in June at events hosted by BMAT Music Innovators and Sónar+D in Barcelona, these Principles outline enforceable, global standards for how AI should be responsibly developed and deployed in music.

With AI set to reshape the music industry in profound ways, AFEM’s framework seeks to ensure that innovation does not come at the expense of those who make the music.

“Electronic music has always thrived on innovation—blending new and old technologies with pure human talent to forge new musical languages,” said Jay Ahern, AFEM’s Chief Growth Officer.
“We’re excited about AI not just as a sound generator, but as a tool to help surface and identify music so creators and rights holders are both creatively fulfilled and fairly compensated.”

Why now?

Electronic music is one of the most globally streamed genres, generating over 1.5 billion monthly plays and powering a €12.9 billion industry (IMS Business Report 2025). As one of the most technologically progressive music communities, the electronic sector is well-positioned to lead on how generative AI is used — and misused — in the creative space.

While AI offers vast potential, it also presents serious risks around ownership, attribution, and fair pay. Without clear standards, there’s a danger that history will repeat itself, with innovation outpacing rights protections and creators left behind.

AFEM’s Principles aim to change that.

The Four Core Principles

CONSENT MATTERS

AI training uses must be licensed with explicit authorization.

OLD CONTRACTS DON’T APPLY

Historical agreements were never designed for AI and consent cannot  be implied.

MORAL RIGHTS APPLY

Creators must have a say—even if commercial exploitation rights were licensed or assigned.

CREDIT AND PAY

Attribution, fair remuneration and transparency must apply to training and outputs.

“The problem with Gen AI has been that all involved are operating in the absence of a generally agreed framework for what is acceptable and what is not,” said Kurosh Nasseri, AFEM Co-founder and Co-chair.
“By formulating a simple set of core principles, we can create an environment in which this new technology can flourish without violating the rights of creators and rightsholders.”

Framing the Industry’s Response

AFEM’s Principles serve not only as a guide for rights holders but also for tech companies, platforms, labels, and distributors seeking to build trust in AI-powered tools.

This initiative comes at a critical moment as creators across the globe push back against policy proposals and court cases that risk diluting copyright protection in the name of innovation.

The AFEM AI Principles reject the search for legal loopholes and instead advocate for:

• Clear, modern interpretations of existing rights

• Fair agreements and attribution practices

• A transparent, accountable future for generative AI

What’s Next?

This is a business-first response to a technological shift already underway, and one that invites all corners of the electronic music ecosystem to align around a shared reality: AI is here to stay, and we must build with intention.

AFEM’s AI Principles are an open invitation to collaborate and ensure the creative economy remains equitable, sustainable, and forward-looking.

Read the Full Press Release

Click below to view the official press release, including statements, launch details, and full context on AFEM’s AI Principles: