Effective disaster risk management extends beyond the implementation of prevention, preparedness, response and recovery measures to include how well at-risk communities accept, understand, and engage with these measures. This scientific session aims to explore good practices and theoretical approaches in risk communication and citizen science, thus in line with the European Union Disaster Resilience goals.
We invite contributions from scientists, science communicators, and practitioners, with a particular emphasis on Early Career Scientists. Submissions should address various aspects of risk communication, including stakeholder engagement, cultural sensitivity, and the dynamics of communication from hazard preparation through crisis recovery, including communication during an emergency. Contributions that evaluate the impact of these efforts and incorporate science communication into daily practices are highly encouraged. We also welcome discussions on challenges such as reaching the right audiences, conveying targeted and effective messages, and behavioural obstacles. This session will provide a platform for sharing innovative approaches and fostering dialogue on improving public engagement and communication strategies. This session contributes to the European Commission’s disaster resilience goal no. 2 on ‘Prepare - Increasing risk awareness and preparedness of the population’ and the preparEU programme.
Participants are encouraged to also attend the short course and splinter meetings, which together with this session form a unified path, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of risk communication practices.