The Discourse of the Pandemic:A Comparative Study of European Governmental and Presidential Communication in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis

Abstract

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This study, titled "The Discourse of the Pandemic: A Comparative Study of European Governmental and Presidential Communication in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis", by Bettina Schnell and Cristina Imaz Chacón, examines the crisis communication strategies of European leaders during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research focuses on the speeches delivered by the heads of government and state in France, Germany, and Spain in March 2020.

Using Nvivo software for qualitative analysis, the study identifies key themes and compares the communication styles of French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Spanish President Pedro Sanchez, and King Felipe VI of Spain. The analysis reveals common themes such as state of alarm, healthcare system, future predictions, individual discipline, societal cooperation, and protection of the vulnerable.

The study highlights differences in leadership styles, with Merkel adhering to the Expert Appointee Prominence Model, Macron following the Politician Prominence Model, and Sanchez adopting a technocratic approach. The findings underscore the importance of clear, empathetic, and trustworthy communication in managing public perception and compliance during a crisis.

This comparative analysis provides insights into the effectiveness of different crisis communication strategies and the role of leadership in navigating unprecedented global health emergencies.