– Previous experiences and lessons have shown us the importance of expanding risk and crisis communication research to related fields such as political communication and journalism. That’s why I look forward to working in the leadership of our international organization.
Says Bengt Johansson, professor of journalism and mass communication at the Department of Journalism, Media, and Communication (JMG) at the University of Gothenburg.
He was recently appointed vice president of the International Crisis and Risk Communication Association (ICRCA), an organization that brings together researchers and practitioners from around the world to collaborate and understand the role of communication in managing risks and crises.
Bengt Johansson was appointed at the organization's annual conference, where researchers and practitioners from around the world gather to present research and discuss the latest advancements in risk and crisis communication. He will assume the role of president next year and will serve as vice president until then.
– My role will primarily involve working on the annual conference, its theme, and program, he explains.
The organization works to bring together researchers and practitioners internationally to exchange knowledge and experiences. There is also active work within ICRCA to establish collaborations with other organizations, initiate new networks, and strengthen the partnership between academia and practice.
What do you hope to achieve as vice president?
Bengt Johansson explains that he aims to work towards giving global perspectives even greater impact.
– Risks and crises are global phenomena, and it is crucial that we address them as such. By highlighting international perspectives and encouraging more stakeholders to collaborate, we can create stronger and more relevant research. Therefore, I want to continue advocating for the expansion of risk and crisis communication research into related fields, especially political communication and journalism.
What does the appointment mean for you, your research, and for JMG?
– Although it means more work, my new role will strengthen my international network and, hopefully, give me an even stronger international profile, says Bengt Johansson.
This is also an important recognition for my institution, JMG. It shows that JMG's research in risk and crisis communication is not only strong nationally, but also meets high international standards. This creates opportunities for JMG to further establish itself as a central player in the field of research globally.
Text: Andrea Ångman
More information
Read more about Bengt Johansson and his research here: https://www.gu.se/en/about/find-staff/bengtjohansson
