A video has gone viral across Ibiza, protesting the anti-noise laws that which prevent music being played outside above 65 decibels. The video has been shared by DJs, musicians, promoters, well known Ibiza bars and restaurants as well as other residents concerned about the impact of the legislation. A groundswell of support against the new law is rapidly growing in the Ibizan community, where music and dancing are viewed as vital to the culture and prosperity of the island.
The legislation was brought in by the authorities in San Jose after apparently receiving noise complaints from local residents, and impacts popular tourist destinations including San Antonio, Playa d’en Bossa (and its popular beach clubs), Salinas, Cala Bassa, Cala Jondal and more. Ibiza’s iconic beach parties are no longer, resulting in local businesses struggling and, in some cases, being forced to close.
The viral video hosted by the Ibizan community Facebook group Musica Si En Ibiza (Yes To Music In Ibiza), provides a statement which Ibiza residents can share; an impassioned plea to allow the music to be turned up and played outside, both day and night. It states that the individuals living in Ibiza believe in rules and regulations, as well as respect and tolerance, but do not agree with the criminalisation and persecution of music. This video has been viewed over 23,000 times so far and shared widely, over 580 times, among the Ibiza community.
A second viral video in the same Facebook group compares the 65 decibels noise level allowed for music with those of everyday life on the island, for example, traffic noise at 70 decibels, an aeroplane landing at 110 decibels, a vacuum cleaner at 80 decibels, or simple background conversation also at 65 decibels. The video protests that ‘it’s music, not noise’ and asks for intelligent, tailored regulation, not persecution. The video has now been viewed over 29,000 times and shared over 600 times so far, with the message spreading fast.
Another law was introduced at the end of 2017 which resulted in the West End of San Antonio now being ordered to stick to a curfew of 3am for venues which were previously open until 5am, with open air terraces having to shut down at 12am.
To support the campaign, visit www.facebook.com/IbizaMusicaSi
