A kormányzati kríziskommunikáció eszközei a 2022. évi rendkívüli aszály tükrében

Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the communication of the drought (water crisis) of 2022. As water is a vital element, the alpha and omega of survival, the authors should expect the emergence of existential anxieties during related crises that may result in messages being ignored. This makes the communication of the responsible public authority even more difficult. The authors’ aim to make forward-looking recommendations for water professionals in the face of future water crises. Methodology: In order to help develop more effective crisis communication the authors analysed the National Directorate General for Water Management’s communications before, during and after the crisis (using the method of media monitoring and analysis) and carried out the evaluation based on their own criteria, which were compiled on the basis of the literature. They conclude their summary findings by making recommendations. Findings: In their opinion, although the communication of the OVF has been characterised by a rapid and accurate flow of information, the role of social responsibility should be strengthened in the future. The proportion of textual and visual content and the choice of publication channels should be reconsidered. Value: Due to the acceleration of the hydrological cycle, it is likely that in the future humanity will have to prepare for more intense periods of extreme water scarcity. According to satellite gravimetric measurements, the water security of the Carpathian Basin is changing in a negative direction. The authors’ results underline that the emerging climate crisis opens up new dimensions in governmental/authority crisis communication, both in terms of preparedness and response.