Political Leadership in Disaster and Crisis Communication and Management: International Perspectives and Practices

This book explores the role of elected leaders in disaster management, using case studies such as Hurricane Katrina and the 2010-11 South-East Queensland floods to highlight key tactics. It is relevant for students, scholars, and practitioners interested in disaster communication.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 203 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the critical role of elected leaders in disaster management, addressing a significant gap in the disaster literature. The authors adopt a pragmatic approach to understanding the intricate relationships between the affected public, the operational response, and the actions of elected officials. Through in-depth exploration, they examine key tactics employed by operational managers in navigating unreasonable political demands, as well as the responsibility of elected officials at various government levels to ensure vital life-saving information reaches those in need.

The book draws upon compelling case studies, such as the mismanagement of public perceptions during Hurricane Katrina in the United States and the heartfelt messages delivered by Queensland Premier Anna Bligh during the 2010–11 South-East Queensland floods in Australia. These case studies provide valuable insights into the challenges and complexities faced by disaster managers.

To enrich the analysis, the book relies on a series of interviews with senior disaster managers from ten different countries. These interviews offer a wealth of firsthand perspectives and provide a deeper understanding of the challenges and strategies employed in disaster communication.

This book is of immense relevance to students, scholars, and practitioners interested in disaster communication. It offers valuable insights into the dynamics between elected leaders, operational managers, and the public during disasters, shedding light on effective strategies for disaster management and communication. By examining the roles and responsibilities of elected officials in disaster management, this book contributes to the ongoing discourse on disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, ultimately enhancing the resilience of communities and societies.

Weight: 305g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030429034
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020