The Influence of Culture on Crisis Communications

Ihab Hanna S. Sawalha

Abstract: Culture is a key aspect of personal, social, as well as organizational characters. Failing to address cultural issues is likely to influence communications especially in crisis times which subsequently will reduce resilience of societies and organizations in the face of crises, disasters or business interruptions.

Three main issues will be discussed in this article. First, an overview of culture and the characteristics of the Arab and Jordanian culture. Second, the influence of this culture on the practice of Crisis Communications (CC) in Jordan. Third, potential factors that support the role of culture in CC.

These issues are significant since they represent the characteristics and influence of the Arab culture. This article contributes to the understanding of the significance of culture in CC for organizations operating in Jordan and in the Arab World more generally. The paper also highlights current cultural shifts in the Arab World in a time of huge political and social instability.