A Political Communication on Disaster Management: In the 2024 Noto Earthquake

• In Event: Navigating the Nexus: Governance, Tech, & Infrastructure in Crisis Management

Abstract

This comprehensive study examines 300,000 social media posts on X (formerly Twitter) related to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in Japan, which occurred from January 1st to 3rd, 2024. Set within the framework of political communication, the research compares the public's response to this earthquake with reactions to previous disasters such as the Great East Japan Earthquake. The aim is to gain insights into public expectations and demands from the government in areas such as disaster prevention, food supply, and medical response, thereby shedding light on the role of political communication in disaster management.

Advanced Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques were employed to analyze the data, revealing a nuanced picture of public sentiment. A significant finding is the public's critical view of the government’s abstract governance failures during the disaster, contrasted with a positive evaluation of its handling of material supplies. This dichotomy in public opinion highlights the complex dynamics of political communication and sentiment during crises.

The research delves into public trust and expectations, exploring how historical precedents and social media discourse shape attitudes towards government actions during emergencies. It offers vital insights into the role of political communication in fostering transparent, responsive, and adaptive disaster management strategies.

The findings are crucial for scholars and practitioners in political communication and disaster management, providing a nuanced understanding of government and media discourse interplay. This study is particularly important for contemplating the relationship between the government and citizens in a democratic society. It underscores the importance of effective political communication as an integral part of disaster response and preparedness.

In conclusion, this research significantly contributes to the field of political communication, especially in understanding and enhancing interactions between the government and the public during disasters. It highlights the need for adaptive and informed government strategies that align with the complex and varied public expectations, illustrating the critical nature of these interactions in a democratic context.

Author

• Toru Oga, Kyushu University