No. 51

Download

Share

Print

Communication failures in Ukrainian war refugees arriving in Estonia

  • Kristi Aav

    Kristi Aav

    University of Tartu, Prevention Partner of the Estonian Rescue

  • Ida Joao-Hussar

    Ida Joao-Hussar

    Junior Researcher in Community Development, University of Tartu

  • Sten Hansson

    Sten Hansson

    Associate Professor of Communication Studies at University of Tartu

  • Kati Orru

    Kati Orru

    Professor of Risk Sociology at University of Tartu

The arrival of Ukrainian war refugees in Estonia in 2022 revealed critical shortcomings in crisis communication infrastructure.

Authors highlight how communication failures—ranging from inaccessible digital platforms and language barriers to information overload and disinformation—intensified refugee vulnerability. Interviews with officials and volunteers revealed that many refugees lacked the tools or digital fluency to navigate Estonia’s e-governance. Effective crisis response demands culturally sensitive, multilingual outreach, improved coordination between institutions and volunteers, and trauma-informed communication strategies. The authors advocate for user-centred digital platforms, designated spokespersons, and tailored support for vulnerable subgroups. In an era of global displacement, Estonia’s experience offers essential lessons in human-centred crisis governance.

Feedback