Conceptualizing Cross-Border Crises: the Specificity of Ukrainian-Polish Crisis Communications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31861/mediaforum.2026.18.163-185Keywords:
crisis communication, cross-border nature, cross-border risks/crises, Ukrainian-Polish cross-border crisesAbstract
Crises of a cross-border nature are positioned as a critically important domain not only of national but also of international politics. Threats not recognizing national borders constitute the main challenge in cross-border crises and require not only administrative coordination but also efficient information exchange, unity of positions, trust in official sources, and the countering of disinformation in a multinational environment. Cross-border dynamics disrupt established governance frameworks, emphasizing the need for network-based models of interaction and a communicative dimension grounded in consensus, responsibility as well as trust. International cooperation requires open and two-way communication. However, specific communication methods for cross-border crises and criteria for assessing their effectiveness remain insufficiently studied. The development of a theoretical framework for analyzing communication in cross-border crises, identifying problem areas, and determining appropriate tools contributes to coordinated action through reducing uncertainty and the preservation of public trust. This can be facilitated by the study of cross-border terminology, the systematization of communication problems by crisis types, and the development of practical evaluation indicators. A cross-border crisis is strategically dependent on communication, as it determines interstate coordination and the population’s readiness to follow recommendations. Key communication challenges include fragmentation of responsibility, asynchrony in decision-making, language barriers, and the spread of misinformation. Tools for addressing these challenges include joint information-sharing protocols, early warning systems, and unified communication algorithms. Bilateral communication reduces the gap between institutional logic and public expectations. Empirical analysis through case studies allows for assessing the speed of initial communication, consistency between actors, and the availability of practical guidance.
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