Risk Communication During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Era of Social Media

Abstract

The widespread application of social media in the field of crisis management has been adopted globally. In recent years, the role of social media in emergencies has grown, especially during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study explores the different roles played by social media in the government, the media, and the public during the pandemic through the key nodes of information dissemination at each developmental stage of crisis risk communication. The results indicate that in a government-led environment, in which social media is the link and the public is the core, attention must be directed towards the key role of social media as a “whistleblower” during the incubation period of a crisis event. Moreover, a new gatekeeping mechanism that integrates the public, the media, and the government should be formed to improve emergency management during crises.

Sunda Strait Tsunami’s Impact on SDGs. A Change in The Welfare of The Tsunami Survivor’s Family

“…Information about COVID-19 is spreading and received by families and communities, followed by strict prevention efforts, that is, preventing the entry of outsiders who are suspected of carrying COVID-19. The community considered this to be quite effective, so in a short period of time, a lockdown was carried out in the post-tsunami area, in accordance with other studies [27,28].…”

Using social media in disaster management: The perceptions of emergency responders versus the public

“…Instances of perceived censorship on platforms capable of multidirectional dialog, like Telegram and WhatsApp, but also Facebook, highlight the public's frustration with unmet expectations for engagement. The public values rapid information receipt but also emphasizes the importance of active information sharing and engagement with authorities, reflecting a shift towards more decentralized communication models (Feng & Umaier, 2023; Suhaimi et al, 2022). This dichotomy indicates a need for emergency organizations to adapt their strategies to foster trust and engagement by responding to the public's concerns, balancing both unidirectional and multidirectional communication flows.…”

“…During emergencies, the continuous flow of information through social media reflects another challenge in governance (Feng & Umaier, 2023). Digital channels have become invaluable tools for disseminating critical updates, safety instructions, and timely alerts.…”

“…Prompt and timely responses are crucial for building trust and instilling a sense of security. Timely responses alleviate concerns and demonstrate a commitment to transparency and open communication, fostering a stronger bond between first responders and the communities they serve (Feng & Umaier, 2023).…”