Interview with Norbert published by UK for UNHCR
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The research of the Music, Migration and Mobility project, led by Norbert at the Royal College of Music from 2019-2023, has helped to inform UK for UNHCR’s winter campaign Hope on Repeat, which focused on the importance of music for refugees and intercultural understanding. Norbert advised the campaign team on the connection between music and migration, using examples from the project’s historical and interdisciplinary research.
Watch UK for UNHCR's interview with Norbert here:
UNHCR also commissioned a survey about music's potential to bridge cultural boundaries, informed by Norbert's research. Here are some of the findings:
London, 10 December 2025 – A survey commissioned by UK for UNHCR explores how music brings people together across cultures, inspired by recent historical research led by Royal College of Music Research Fellow Norbert Meyn. The survey reveals fascinating insights into music’s role in helping to form social bonds, build community and develop understanding across cultures in the UK. The study forms part of the ‘Hope on Repeat’ campaign, launched by the UN Refugee Agency’s UK charity partner, to raise awareness of the hardship facing people forced to flee their homes in Afghanistan, Syria and Ukraine this winter.
Music connects us all
Questioned on music’s role in UK society, 73% of respondents see music as a way to build better relationships between people from different backgrounds*. The survey revealed:
Over a third (36%) cite music as a universal language
30% see music as a source of unity
More than a quarter (26%) think music breaks down social barriers
26% value music’s ability to start conversations
The survey also reports that 60% of people in the UK believe that listening to music from different parts of the world builds connection and understanding with people from different cultures**― six times the number who disagree.
As well as making people feel closer to others, it’s clear that music helps respondents to feel more positive: well over half (57%) state that they have go-to songs that lift their spirits, make them feel hopeful and inspired; and close to half (49%) turn to music to help them through difficult times.
Music as a safe space
The results of the survey underline music’s role in building communities and solidarity with others.
Royal College of Music Research Fellow, Norbert Meyn, whose research inspired the survey said, “Music travels easily across borders and does not need a passport. When people move, music moves with them, and music can also travel through sheet music and recordings. UK for UNHCR’s survey findings show that we not only turn to music as a source of hope and identity for ourselves, but we also see it as a way to actively connect with others. When shared, music can help us feel emotional warmth and human connection. Music drives a sense of community and togetherness like few other mediums.”
Please consider supporting the Hope on Repeat campaign.
You can read the full press release here:
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