The Evolution of Political Communication in Crisis and Disaster

Abstract

Political communication during crises and disasters has undergone a profound transformation, evolving from state-controlled propaganda to the real-time, fragmented, and interactive digital exchanges of the modern era. This article comprehensively traces this evolution, examining foundational strategies from historical conflicts and early disasters, the paradigm shift introduced by broadcast media, the disruptive role of social media, and the emergent challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) and misinformation. Drawing on interdisciplinary literature and case studies from the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and climate-related disasters, it analyzes how political leaders leverage communication for crisis management, public engagement, and narrative control. Crucially, the analysis extends to both open democracies and states with strict information control, providing a holistic global perspective. It also scrutinizes the powerful, often unacknowledged role of social media platforms as digital gatekeepers whose algorithmic designs exacerbate polarization. Key findings indicate that while digital tools offer unprecedented speed and responsiveness, they simultaneously amplify misinformation, deepen political divides, and create new vulnerabilities for societal cohesion. The effectiveness of crisis communication is shown to be contingent not only on the channel but on the political context, leadership style, and, most importantly, public trust. The article concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for robust ethical frameworks, enhanced digital literacy, and regulatory innovation to mitigate AI-driven risks and fortify democratic resilience.