skip to main content

Representatives of MU Attend This Week’s International Labour Organisation in Geneva

The ILO (International Labour Organisation) brings together governments, employers and workers of 187 Member States to set Labour standards, develop policies and devise programmes promoting decent work for all.

Published: 15 February 2023 | 5:30 PM Updated: 16 February 2023 | 12:11 PM
Naomi Pohl and Dave Webster stand together in front of row of flags of member states attending the ILO.
“This is an important opportunity for us to address issues affecting musicians and other creative sector workers on an international scale". Image credit: The MU ©.

This week MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl, and Head of International Dave Webster, will represent the union at the International Labour Organisation in Geneva. Here they will meet with other trade unions from the UK and around the world to negotiate improved terms and conditions for working people in the Arts and Entertainment Industry.

More specifically, the purpose of the meeting is to discuss opportunities and challenges for decent work in the sector in the context of digital technologies, globalization, environmental sustainability, demographic changes and a human-centred COVID-19 recovery, with the aim of adopting conclusions, including recommendations for future action.

The MU is part of the workers group, which negotiates with employer groups and other governments.

Naomi Pohl said:

“This is an important opportunity for us to address issues affecting musicians and other creative sector workers on an international scale. Issues discussed include the importance of collective bargaining, cross-border mobility, diversity and inclusion, copyright, AI and digitisation.

“We hope the conclusions from this week’s meeting will facilitate improvements across the globe, particularly for creative freelancers”.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Close up of person holding a pen and paper over a keyboard.

Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters

If you have attended a songwriting session for a major label since September 2025, the DCMS wants to hear from you. Your feedback will help evaluate measures introduced following the UK streaming inquiry and strengthen the case for fair pay for music creators.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters
Person sat in front of an open laptop wearing headphones and programming music.

MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield

The MU are hosting a roundtable discussion, ‘The Long Play: Building a Sustainable Career in Music’, at Sensoria Pro — a conference exploring innovation across music and the moving image — in Sheffield on Friday 23 October. Members can also receive a 25% discount on tickets.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield
Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
Poppy and her band at the poolside performing live. People are in the water, in rings and inflatables watching. Banners and balloons are behind the band.

Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician

After turning a love of swimming into a fully funded EP, music video and poolside live show, young musician and Wales & South West England Regional Committee member Poppy Rose reflects on the value of backing yourself, embracing niche ideas and making opportunities happen on your own terms.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician