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Amelie Lens speaks out against abuse and calls for accountability in techno scene
Several events and festivals have dropped Shlømo, Odymel, CARV, Basswell, and Fantasm from their lineups following a surge of allegations, marking what many describe as a “MeToo” moment for electronic music
The Amelie Lens statement on the electronic music industry has intensified conversations about safety, accountability, and responsibility after a wave of accusations within the hard techno scene. The Belgian DJ and producer used her platform to highlight the reality many women face and to call on men in the community to take responsibility when harmful behavior occurs.
Her message arrives at a moment of intense discussion across the global techno community, with multiple artists facing accusations of sexual misconduct and several festivals removing names from lineups as situations continue to unfold.
Amelie Lens calls for men to intervene
In her statement, Amelie Lens emphasized that safety has been treated as a “women’s problem” for far too long. She explained that women often feel forced to protect themselves instead of being able to rely on safe environments created by the community.
She wrote:
“We are tired. The dancefloor is our home and the backstage is our workplace, but neither feels safe for us. Safety has been treated as a ‘women’s problem’ for far too long.”
Lens also directed a clear message toward men, encouraging them to challenge inappropriate behavior among their peers instead of ignoring it.
“The question is not whether all men are responsible. The question is: when something is wrong, who speaks up? Who interrupts the joke? Who checks their friend? Who refuses to look away?”
Her words quickly resonated across the industry, with many artists and fans sharing the statement in support.
Personal experience reveals deeper issues
The DJ also revealed a deeply disturbing personal experience involving threats she received from a man who sent hundreds of messages describing plans of kidnapping and sexual violence. According to Lens, the individual later traveled to Antwerp and approached her in person.
Despite presenting evidence to authorities, she said the situation was not taken seriously.
“I once went to the police with hundreds of messages from a person detailing exactly how he would kidnap and rape me. I went to the police with every receipt and they barely looked at them.”
She added that survivors should not be forced to publicly relive trauma in order to be believed.
“I am not ready to share my personal experiences and I shouldn’t have to. I shouldn’t have to relive my trauma just so you’ll finally tell your ‘bro’ to stop.”
Read this next: Rebekah: the techno DJ fighting sexual abuse in dance music
Hard techno scene faces allegations and industry response
The statement comes amid ongoing allegations involving several hard techno artists, including Shlømo, Odymel, CARV, Basswell, and Fantasm. Multiple festivals and promoters have removed artists from upcoming lineups while monitoring developments.
Management company Steer Management announced that it had suspended collaborations with some of the artists while conducting internal reviews. Some of the accused have denied the allegations, while others acknowledged inappropriate behavior but denied any criminal wrongdoing.
The situation has been described by parts of the community as a potential #MeToo moment for hard techno.
Community support and calls for safer environments
Several artists across the electronic music scene have spoken publicly in support of victims and called for stronger safety measures. These include clearer reporting systems, backstage protocols, and consent training within the industry.
Lens’ statement also highlighted the cultural issue of silence and the protection of reputations over people.
“Help us break the cycle, stop automatically protecting your bros and ask yourself, why are there accusations in the first place? The truth isn’t defamation, it is a reckoning.”
Read this next: Harassment Hits a High Note: One Third of Women in Music Have Experienced Sexual Harassment, Report Finds
A broader conversation about responsibility in electronic music
The conversation sparked by Amelie Lens extends beyond individual cases. It raises questions about power dynamics, accountability, and the role of bystanders in preventing harmful situations.
Her message ultimately focuses on collective responsibility and the importance of creating environments where everyone feels safe both on the dancefloor and behind the scenes.
As the electronic music industry continues to evolve, discussions like this may play a crucial role in shaping safer and more respectful spaces for future generations.
AFEM sponsors a confidential support service for anyone affected by sexual harassment within the electronic music industry.
Health Assured provides the service to ensure confidential, expert counselling in a safe and supportive environment for anyone who has been affected and needs guidance.
Call: 0800 030 5182
Outside the UK: +44 800 030 5182
Trained professionals are available to listen and provide support.