Reports of sexual harassment within the electronic music community is once again in the media, prompting renewed scrutiny of conduct, accountability and safeguarding across parts of the electronic music sector. This dark moment reminds us that progress cannot be assumed and that strong leadership from allies and collective responsibility remain essential.

Our first priority is to acknowledge those who come forward. Speaking publicly or privately about harassment or abuse carries professional, personal and emotional risk. AFEM calls on that courage to be met with action and commitment from the wider industry and everyone who shapes the culture and commercial framework of electronic music.

AFEM has and recommends the following resources, which we ask the music industry at large to utilise and share. They offer action from the ground up: supporting victims, campaigning for music industry awareness and change, and providing specialist advice for resolution and prevention at every stage.

These resources are open to everyone in need. Please share them widely across the industry.

Victim Centred Support

AFEM provides a confidential sexual harassment reporting line for industry professionals and artists, funded by members but operated completely independently and by Health Assured.

It offers a safe and supportive environment for anyone who has been affected and needs guidance and support. Trained experts will listen and provide confidential support, as well as access to medical, psychological and legal advice where appropriate.

To access this please call the numbers below quoting ‘AFEM‘

UK: 0800 030 5182
Outside the UK: +44 800 030 5182
Please contact your phone provider to check if calling from outside the UK incurs additional cost.

We encourage anyone who has experienced harassment or abuse to seek support, whether through this service, their employer, an independent advisor or the appropriate authorities. At the same time, we call on organisations across the sector to review their policies, duty of care obligations and reporting procedures without delay.

Prevention and Education

AFEM has also produced a Code of Conduct which is designed to prevent sexual harassment and gender or gender identity discrimination within the electronic music industry and AFEM Member companies. It works by creating an environment where such behaviour is not tolerated, through awareness, education, increased respect, protection and prevention.

AFEM is committed to supporting an industry where employers, employees, businesses and fans have a shared obligation to maintain workplaces and event spaces free from sexual harassment and gender or gender identity discrimination.

This Code of Conduct begins the process of setting professional standards within the industry for our members and the wider sector to adopt.

You can read the code of conduct here.

STOP. SUPPORT. REPORT.

Independent Resolution Services

AFEM also funds and supports the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA), an independent body providing mediation, arbitration and investigation services to help address bullying, harassment and other misconduct across the creative industries.

CIISA offers a clear, confidential pathway for organisations and individuals to seek resolution, strengthen their safeguarding practices, and embed consistent standards of behaviour.

Find out more about CIISA’s services and how to engage with them here.

For an industry built on freedom, expression and unity, there is no place for harm or harassment. Safety, protection and respect must be a baseline for everyone. Change cannot rest on victims speaking out; it is a shared responsibility across our community, especially for those who hold power and influence.

We call for clear accountability, active support, and safer structures so that our culture lives up to the values our music represents.