An Examination of the Impact of Government Communication in a Pandemic

People have experienced many pandemics in the last centuries, and these pandemics can cause fatal consequences if the governments and leaders fail to communicate with their citizens effectively during a challenging time. As the COVID-19 pandemic is evolving, many governments have been struggling to inform and to educate their residents. This thesis aims to answer the research question through secondary and primary research: What is the role of public relations practitioners in government communication during a pandemic? In the secondary research, there are related definitions, examples of governments worldwide handling the COVID-19 pandemic, issues, and essential elements that affect government communication. The primary research included a 14-question survey and generated 356 responses. Overall, this study will be valuable to public relations and communication practitioners, government leaders, and public health experts who seek a deep understanding of government communication during a pandemic.