Crisis Resilience Developing an Integrated Public Disaster Communication System for Bangkok

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the current state of public disaster management and crisis communication in Bangkok; 2) analyze best practices from the industrial sector, and 3) develop integrated disaster communication guidelines. Using qualitative research methodology through a case study of the 2025 building collapse incident, data was collected via in-depth interviews and focus groups with 16 stakeholders. The findings revealed that: 1) Bangkok's disaster management and crisis communication face challenges including lack of unified command, delayed and conflicting communication, insufficient preparedness, and limited public participation; 2) Best practices from the industrial sector demonstrate strengths in centralized command systems, integrated technology utilization, continuous personnel development, and strong safety culture; 3) Integrated disaster communication guidelines encompass six dimensions: command system reform, integrated communication system development, community participation enhancement, technology application, specialized personnel development, and legal framework improvement for transparency. The study's theoretical contributions include the “Adaptive Cross-sector Integration Model” that applies industrial practices to urban contexts, the development of an “Integrated Crisis Communication Platform” serving as a Single Source of Truth, and the “Community-centered Resilience Building” concept that positions communities as owners of disaster management systems. These research findings provide guidelines for enhancing Bangkok's disaster management capabilities toward greater efficiency and sustainability.