Challenges for communicators
What challenges do communicators face in risk communication work? The study identifies four overarching tensions. One example is the tension between transparency and confidentiality – how much information can municipalities share with the public when it comes to local risks?
In recent decades, the number of communication officers in Swedish municipalities has increased. One reason is the growing digitalization of public administration. Another is the rising need for communicators working in crisis management and crisis communication.
This study explores the role of communicators and the challenges they face in risk communication aimed at strengthening public preparedness.
The findings highlight four overarching "tensions" in the risk communication efforts of both municipalities and their communicators: legal, organizational, cultural, and technological.
To address these tensions, the researchers propose three measures. First, it is important to acknowledge and accept these tensions as an inherent part of the communication process. Second, a reflexive communication strategy is needed – one that considers the complexity and challenges of risk communication. Finally, the professional status and mandate of communicators must be strengthened to better manage the organizational tensions they encounter.
Lerøy Sataøen, H. och Eriksson, M. (2023), “Striking the right balance”: tensions in municipal risk communication management for preparedness", Journal of Communication Management, Vol. 27 No. 4, pp. 601-616.
For more information, please contact: hogne.sataoen@oru.se