How politicians and public officials SHOULD NOT communicate with journalists during times of tragedy

1️⃣ Don’t show arrogance and disinterest

-Don’t be dismissive, impatient or irritated.

-Avoid sarcasm, eye-rolling or showing superiority.

-Don’t minimize the tragedy or shift blame to others.

2️⃣ Don’t withhold information or avoid answers

-Don’t answer with vague and empty phrases.

-If certain information is not yet available, say so openly instead of avoiding questions.

-Don’t give wrong or contradictory information – it creates distrust and speculation.

3️⃣ Don’t use the tragedy for political marketing

-This is not the time for political points or PR performances.

-Don’t promise something you can’t fulfill.

-Do not use the tragedy to attack political opponents.

4️⃣ Do not blame the public, the media or the victims

-Do not suggest that the victims are to blame themselves.

-Do not attack journalists for “spreading panic” just because they ask difficult questions.

-The media has the right to inform – respect their role.