Observations from Wuhan: an adaptive risk and crisis communication system for a health emergency

This study analyzed the building of a risk communication system in Wuhan, China, to aid cross-country comparison from a policy and academic perspective. The authors used complex adaptive systems theory (CAS) to theorize the communication strategy adopted by the government – led by the Hubei Province COVID-19 Epidemic Prevention and Control Headquarters. Using ethnographic fieldwork and discourse analysis, the authors observed and analyzed the online and offline communication process to formulate an overview of the communications platforms used in Wuhan.

By using complex adaptive system (CAS) theory, the authors argue that Wuhan quickly built an adaptive communication system consisting of five elements: 1) non-linear information output, 2) online and offline continuous support systems, 3) a public emotional support system, 4) multi-subject information interaction platforms and 5) a context-based approach. Wuhan's adaptive crisis communication system was backed by digital and offline infrastructure, human resources support, policy development, as well as access to scientific and technological expertise. The Wuhan municipal government adapted its communication strategy in response to public feedback, and created mechanisms to ensure that two-way communication was used to drive policy and integrate feedback from the government, enterprises, social organizations and the public.