Crisis Communication in the Context of Terrorism: Process Approach to Complex Crises

This chapter focuses on crisis communication in the context of terrorism, which is a contested term and a complex phenomenon that requires societal preparedness. The multi-actor response network that counters terrorism features government organizations, NGOs, and business organizations. Accordingly, this chapter explores crisis communication through the framework of an integrated process approach to risk and crisis communication that covers all phases of terrorist crises, including examples from recent research. Issues relevant to this crisis type are described from a crisis communication perspective, including the myth of a panic-prone public and an ethical dimension. Finally, the chapter presents suggestions for future research.