Crisis Communication Management of the Thai Government During Earthquake Disasters
Keywords:
Disaster Management, Risk Communication, Public Communication, Disaster Warning Systems, Crisis ResponseAbstract
Earthquakes are sudden-onset disasters that inflict severe consequences on human lives, property, and societal security. Government communication constitutes a critical mechanism in crisis management, serving to control situations, mitigate public anxiety, and foster confidence among citizens. This article reviews key concepts, theories, and literature concerning crisis management and communication, examines earthquake occurrences over the past decade, and analyzes the Thai government’s communication practices during the earthquake on March 28, 2025. The findings reveal that Thailand’s crisis communication in earthquake situations reflects systemic limitations despite the existence of clear policy frameworks. In the pre-crisis phase, the state has been unable to cultivate a sustainable culture of preparedness. During the crisis, communication has been marked by insufficient speed, clarity, and unity. In the post-crisis phase, communication has often emphasized self-congratulatory publicity rather than fostering public participation or drawing policy lessons. Such shortcomings have undermined public trust and highlighted the fragility of crisis management mechanisms. Accordingly, the reform of crisis communication systems is an urgent necessity. Strategic attributes should include speed, accuracy, transparency, and inclusiveness, combined with the integration of digital technological innovations. These measures are essential to building societal resilience and enhancing the nation’s capacity to confront increasingly complex disasters in the future.
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