Inclusive Socio-economic Development and Enriching Lives through Culture
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We believe that entrepreneurship, culture and creativity can build a more equal, caring and prosperous society that enriches the lives of individuals and communities across the world.
Promoting blockchain to change content distribution and development
What problem does the research address?
Musicians rely on streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube to reach their audiences, however there is a lack of transparency which limits their ability to be fairly compensated. Our research looked at the potential opportunities and challenges which blockchain technology offers the music industry to change how they develop and distribute content.
How is the research impactful?
Our Blockchain for the Creative Industries cluster published ‘Music on the Blockchain’, acclaimed as “the most in-depth look so far at how the music industry can benefit from blockchain technology”. This influenced decision-making on the use of blockchain and inspired innovation and new blockchain initiatives. Today our research continues to address challenges faced by artists and songwriters, for example to make transactions as part of streaming deals more reliable and transparent.
Where was the research impactful regionally and globally?
For creators, digital entrepreneurs, incumbent music businesses and governmental authorities in the UK, USA, Italy, Finland.
Who are the key partners and collaborators?
Cross-disciplines with Middlesex computer scientists. Music industry trade body Featured Artists Coalition, Nick Mason, drummer with Pink Floyd.
Supporting communities through the arts
Lorraine Leeson, Senior Lecturer in Fine Art at Middlesex, involves a group of older men living in east London called the Geezers in her inclusive art practice.
They have worked together for more than ten years looking for innovative and artistic solutions for sustainable energy and other challenges in their community.
Improving the treatment of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff in the NHS
What problem does the research address?
Society continues to face the urgent issue of how we can tackle race discrimination by employers. Our research into discrimination in the NHS evidenced patterns of under-representation of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) staff within senior and Board levels of the NHS and demonstrated effective ways to create change.
How is the research impactful?
Our research showed that data driven accountability linked to contractual obligation is required to reduce discrimination. The Business School was commissioned to design the NHS Workforce Race Equality Standard which has driven sustained and large scale action in the NHS, England’s largest employer. The ongoing positive impacts on policy and individual staff include a greater likelihood of BME staff being appointed from shortlisting, more BAME staff appointed at senior/Board level, and a reduction in the likelihood of disciplinary action for BME staff.
Where was the research impactful regionally and globally?
UK, specifically within the NHS
Who are the key partners and collaborators?
NHS
Sustainable Development Goals
The Inclusive Socio-economic Development and Enriching Lives through Culture theme links to 11 Sustainable Development Goals. The goals were set by the United Nations General Assembly as a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.
1. No Poverty
2. Zero Hunger
4. Quality Education
5. Gender Equality
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
8. Decent Growth and Economic Growth
9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
10. Reduced Inequalities
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
17. Partnerships for the Goals
Advancing indigenous peoples' rights
What problem does the research address?
Indigenous cultures are under threat of extinction because of the way development is being imposed on them, destroying their land and way of life. Many indigenous peoples are still not recognised by national governments which presents enormous challenges for indigenous people to realise their fundamental economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights.
How is the research impactful?
We analysed international and comparative law for a comprehensive survey of discrimination against indigenous peoples and minorities. This has informed developments around the rights of minorities to education and the need for consent-based corporate engagement with indigenous peoples. The rights of minorities and indigenous peoples are now more prominent in government and corporate reporting and in the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Where was the research impactful regionally and globally?
For minorities and indigenous peoples in countries including Pakistan, Iraq, Kenya, Uganda, Mauritania, India, Egypt, North Macedonia, Peru, Brazil, and Colombia.
Who are the key partners and collaborators?
UN human rights mechanisms, OECD Advisory Group for Meaningful Stakeholder Engagement in the Extractives Sector, International Human Rights Institute, Minority Rights Group. Indigenous peoples’ organizations and litigating organisations, judiciaries and legislative assemblies worldwide.