Singapore:
The Singaporean leader effectively employed the CERC principles, rapidly disseminating information and providing a factual comparison with SARS to set accurate expectations. The address was anchored in credibility, focusing on verifiable facts and the country’s preparedness. Empathy was expressed towards the citizens’ concerns, with reassurances about government readiness. Clear actions were outlined for individuals to maintain hygiene and self-monitoring, promoting a sense of agency. The speech conveyed respect for the population’s ability to handle the crisis, reminiscent of the nation’s experience with SARS, garnering a positive reception globally for the leader’s communication.
The United States:
While the leader was timely in communicating with the public about the COVID-19 crisis, the messages were sometimes marred by instances of casting blame on other countries for the spread of the virus. This approach diverged from the CERC principle of “Show Respect,” which emphasizes respectful communication. Instead of fostering a global sense of solidarity, which is paramount during international crises, these remarks risked creating division and detracting from the unified response needed to address the pandemic effectively. The leader’s communication could have been improved by focusing on the shared global challenge and avoiding the attribution of blame, thereby upholding the CERC principles of promoting action and respecting all parties involved in the crisis response.