The upcoming New Year’s Eve event at the Paris Aquarium has sparked outrage from animal rights activists, particularly the Paris Animaux Zoopolis (PAZ) organization. They are concerned that the event could potentially harm the well-being of the aquatic animals and may even violate animal welfare laws.

The planned “exceptional New Year’s Eve” event is expected to attract around 1,500 attendees and will feature dancing in front of the largest fish tank in France. Animal rights activists have expressed concerns about the well-being of the thousands of fish and other marine creatures, particularly during late-night events with loud music and bright lights.

Despite criticism, the aquarium’s president, Alexis Powilewicz, maintains that the fish are not adversely affected by the events. He has pointed out that the fish tanks are built with thick methacrylate walls, which provide soundproofing and protection from external disturbances.

The controversy has led to legal action, with the environmental group Sea Shepherd challenging the legality of the nightclub events. In February 2022, the administrative court of Paris ruled partially in favor of Sea Shepherd, stating that the original authorization for the aquarium’s establishment only covered the public exhibition of animal species and did not explicitly permit the organization of nightclub events. The court ordered the local police authority to intervene and ensure that the aquarium complies with the regulations.

The City of Paris, which owns the building where the aquarium is located, has stated that it will review the situation and take appropriate measures to ensure that the aquarium complies with the relevant regulations.

The controversy reflects broader concerns about the ethical and legal implications of hosting events in spaces where animals are housed. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the authorities will address the concerns raised by animal rights activists and ensure the well-being of the aquatic creatures at the aquarium.