The Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF)’s Public Health Network and Ministry of Health of Viet Nam have jointly co-organised a three-day training on Risk Communications for Public Health Emergencies, taking place on 25-27 September 2017 in Hanoi, Viet Nam. The training is intended for Communications Officers, who are anticipated to serve as Public Information Officers within their countries’ Public Health Emergency Operations Centres during the activation of a public health emergency. The training’s objective is to strengthen the participants’ ability to develop an emergency risk communications plan, identify and manage appropriate communication channels, and engage partners and stakeholders for effective communication during a public health emergency.
Risk Communications is one of the core capacities highlighted by the International Health Regulations (IHR) which all World Health Organisation (WHO) member states must comply with. Gathering public servants from ASEAN +3 countries working in this important area, the training will provide opportunities to learn the best practices in emergency risk communications, and network with their peers across the region. Increased understanding and promotion of Risk Communications for Public Health Emergencies will contribute to strengthen ASEM Partners’ capacities towards the fulfilment of IHR’s core capacity requirements.
The training included lectures by risk communications experts on key aspects, such as stakeholder and partner communication or social media strategies. Participants also benefit from group discussions and practical exercises, including developing crisis communication plans.