In these trying times where uncertainties loom large and risks abound, effective communication is not a luxury — it is an imperative. Empowering informed decision-making lies at the heart of risk communication. By proactively addressing potential risks and their consequences, it safeguards individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. It is integral to the formulation of a comprehensive harm reduction strategy, ensuring readiness, prevention, and protection. It is very much present in private and public practice, especially in the fields of disaster preparedness, public health, food security, community engagement, and environmental advocacy.

Learning this communication discipline entails comprehensive professional and personal development. The most common example of its relevance is when the World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges the over-arching importance of risk communication in the public health outbreaks that emerge worldwide (e.g. COVID-19, Ebola): a strengthened risk communication can minimize damage on a grand scale. It is central to the capacity of International Health Regulations and one of the key strategies within the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness framework.

With this, the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC) Professional Development Program (PDP) offers the short course “Risk Communication” to equip young professionals and organizational leaders on the appropriate communication approaches in dealing with risks and preventing their further escalation. This course is a mix of theory and practical application, where participants will explore the intricacies of risk communication, learn to craft compelling messages tailored to certain situations, and develop the appropriate strategy to ensure maximum impact.