skip to main content

Take Action for Free Movement in the EU post-Brexit #WorkingInTheEU

The Musicians’ Union (MU) is campaigning for musicians’ right to travel freely and easily in the European Union (EU). 

Published: 12 June 2017 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

We know it is an issue virtually all members care about – touring in Europe is an important source of income.

To make the case for it, we need your help.

Take action! #WorkingInTheEU

Are you working in the EU right now? Take a picture where you are and share it on social media using the hashtag #WorkingInTheEU.

Did you go on tour recently? Share a picture on social media using the hashtag #WorkingInTheEU.

Make sure to mention us! Find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Haven’t got a picture to hand? That’s okay – email your experiences to Maddy Radcliff (Campaigns & Public Affairs Official) at maddy.radcliff@theMU.org.

Ask your MP to sign the pledge

Ask your MP to sign the pledge to protect easy travel for musicians.

MPs can sign the pledge at a special event in Parliament on Wednesday 5 July, or email the MU to add their name.

You can ask your MP to do this in two ways – sign and send the postcard that came with The Musician, Summer 2017. Or find out who your MP is via Write to Them and ask them to sign the pledge.

Free movement for musicians is just one our five key Brexit issues. Find out more via our Brexit hub, theMU.org/Brexit. 




 

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

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026
The five panellists sat on stage, in purple lighting, with FIM logo behind them.

International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference

Delegates at FIM's International Freelance Conference explored collective bargaining, organising freelance musicians and tackling discrimination, sharing international perspectives on improving working conditions and building a fairer, more inclusive music industry.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference
Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months
Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Read more about Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action