In Partnership with
IMS is deeply concerned by the recent allegations involving a number of artists within the hard techno community, and by the volume of subsequent testimonies shared by individuals across the scene. These accounts are deeply troubling and reinforce the urgency for continued, collective action. We recognise that harmful behaviour is not confined to any one setting, it occurs in clubs, backstage, boardrooms or beyond. While the perpetrators are predominately men, abusers and their victims can be of any gender. The industry must confront this reality openly and consistently.
We stand in solidarity with anyone from any gender who has felt unsafe, marginalised, mistreated, assaulted or abused. We call on our peers across the music industry, particularly men and those in positions of influence, to speak out and actively challenge unacceptable behaviour whenever they encounter it. Meaningful change requires shared responsibility and tangible actions. It is not enough to be against these behaviours if you don’t also challenge them when witnessed.
IMS supports the Code of Conduct established by electronic music trade body AFEM and welcomes its ongoing evolution to reflect new learning and lived experience. Greater accountability across the industry remains essential, and we are committed to playing our part in that progress.
In 2019 we began working with SheSaid.So to address the gender imbalance at IMS Ibiza after becoming aware that some women felt hesitant about attending, particularly at networking events which were male-dominated and felt intimidating. We believe IMS Ibiza has evolved significantly since then, and we have seen encouraging growth in female delegate participation. However, we acknowledge this remains a work in progress and reflects a wider systemic imbalance across the industry that must continue to be addressed.
What is immediate and non-negotiable is our zero tolerance for any form of sexual harassment or misconduct. Following an allegation of inappropriate male behaviour at IMS Ibiza 2025, we undertook a comprehensive review of our safeguarding approach and have implemented strengthened measures to ensure IMS remains a professional, respectful and safe environment for all genders, both in person and within our networking app. These include:
→ Enhancements to our Safer Spaces policy
→ Introduction of a block function within the messaging app
→ New and more accessible reporting mechanisms
→ Increased visibility of welfare support on site
→ Additional safeguarding training for key team members
IMS Ibiza 2026 will host a discussion focused on solutions for sexual assault in the electronic industry, a talk that will be presented in partnership with HE.SHE.THEY., with whom in 2024 we introduced The Brave Space, focused on further inclusion and more open discussions with delegates . We of course understand the entire event has to be a Safer Space and this is our primary focus going into this year's 17th edition of IMS Ibiza.
Resources
→ AFEM (Association for Electronic Music)
→ Music Industry Therapists Collective
