How can fair remuneration, social protection and strong representation for freelance musicians be secured worldwide? At the second International Freelance Conference of the International Federation of Musicians (FIM) in Brighton, experts and representatives of professional organizations developed shared responses to these challenges.
On 21 and 22 October 2026, the conference in Brighton brought together representatives of musicians’ unions and professional associations from around the world. Participants discussed practical ways to improve working conditions, social protection and future career prospects for freelance musicians. The Swiss Musicians’ Union (SMV-USDAM) contributed the Swiss perspective to this international exchange.
Global Challenges, Practical Solutions
Fair pay, legal protection, trade union representation, sustainable portfolio careers and stable incomes were at the heart of the discussions. Participants from Europe, North and South America, Africa and other regions shared their experiences and presented successful models that effectively support freelance music professionals.
Despite differing national frameworks, the challenges are remarkably similar around the world: fluctuating incomes, insufficient social protection, limited bargaining power vis-à-vis employers and clients, as well as new uncertainties arising from digitalization and artificial intelligence. At the same time, many inspiring examples demonstrated that real progress is possible through trade union organization, collective agreements and political advocacy.
The SMV-USDAM’s International Engagement
Three delegates from the Swiss Musicians’ Union (SMV-USDAM), together with Beat Santschi, Vice President of the International Federation of Musicians (FIM), represented the organization in Brighton. Beat Santschi chaired the international panel discussion entitled “Making a living from Live Performance in a scarcity economy.” The discussion focused on the economic importance of live music, the difficult situation faced by many venues, and support models designed to strengthen and protect freelance musicians.
Final Declaration Sets Out Clear Demands
In their final declaration, participants addressed clear demands to governments, cultural institutions, employers and digital platforms. They called for freelance musicians to be recognized as professional cultural workers and granted equal access to labour rights, social protection and collective representation. They also advocated for fair fees, transparent contracts, effective protection against discrimination and binding regulations on artificial intelligence to safeguard musicians’ rights and remuneration.
International Cooperation Strengthens Musicians
The conference highlighted a shared conviction: lasting improvements can only be achieved through international cooperation. In increasingly cross-border labour markets, the exchange of experience, the development of common standards and mutual support are essential to sustainably improving the working and living conditions of freelance musicians.
The SMV-USDAM Will Build on the Momentum
The Swiss Musicians’ Union (SMV-USDAM) will integrate the insights gained in Brighton into its ongoing work. At both national and international level, it will continue to advocate consistently for fair working conditions, strong social protection and effective representation for all musicians.
