EVENT REPORT

Showcasing media innovation and community engagement for disaster resilience

24 November 2025

On 17 November, the Public Media Alliance hosted a panel discussion and showcase as part of its “Data Journalism in Action: Empowering Caribbean Disaster Preparedness” project. Watch both the panel discussion and showcase here.

“Resilient by Design: How Communication and Collaboration Shape Safer Communities”

Disaster risk reduction, the evolving role of information and media, and how cross-sector collaboration can strengthen resilience in the Caribbean: these were some of the topics discussed in a panel hosted by PMA, bringing together leaders from UNESCO Caribbean, Greater Belize Media, and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). The session opened against the backdrop of the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, underscoring the urgency of the topic.

The panel also addressed challenges such as the rapid spread of misinformation; ensuring that communication is inclusive, including for persons with disabilities and rural communities; and the necessity for coordinated messaging and more integrated media involvement throughout disaster risk reduction (DRR).

They also discussed practical actions to building resilience: from rapid post-disaster needs assessments for media, to continuous training, establishing rosters of journalists, and supporting community radio initiatives.

The discussion highlighted that while the Caribbean faces ongoing challenges, there has already been significant progress, while there are opportunities to further strengthen information systems and partnerships. Trust, accessibility, and collaboration, across media, government, and civil society, were said to be essential to saving lives and building a more resilient region.

Information as a lifeline

Panellists agreed that trusted, timely information is critical before, during, and after disasters, on a par with shelter, food, and health services. “Resilience is not only about infrastructure. It is about informed, empowered people who can act,” said Eric Falt (UNESCO Caribbean).

Falt also highlighted the risks posed by misinformation, especially during crises when false videos or rumours can spread faster than official updates, threatening lives.

Building and maintaining trust

All speakers pointed to trust as a foundation for effective DRR communications. Hipolito Novelo (Greater Belize Media) described how newsrooms earn and retain this trust:

“We take pride in being a reliable source of information to the people of Belize. … Our responsibility is not only to share what the experts tell us, but to help guide those that do not know how to react in an emergency situation.”

Novelo described the importance of using platforms people already trust, such as television, radio, and social media, and adapting content (for example, graphics and simple language) for accessibility, especially for vulnerable populations. He also called for more streamlined protocols between emergency agencies and newsrooms to avoid conflicting messages.

Collaboration and community connection

Keith Goddard (CDEMA) provided insight into the logistics of regional response, outlining how CDEMA coordinates across the region and multiple partners during disaster events. He described the importance of accurate, up-to-date situation reports that inform relief operations and connect governments, donors, and communities:

“In a small region … where one event can affect an entire nation, communication becomes the bridge between those of us who are responding, the governments with the information, and the public, and ensure that the resources reach those who need them the most. The recovery begins from a place of awareness and solidarity.”

Goddard explained that CDEMA leverages networks of NGOs, youth groups, and agricultural organisations to reach the hardest-hit and most remote communities. He stressed the need for year-round engagement, not just crisis communication, and more developmental journalism on climate and disaster issues.

“Data Journalism in Action” showcase

The “Data Journalism in Action” showcase provided an in-depth look at the innovative ways Caribbean journalists are harnessing data and community engagement to address disaster risk and resilience. Two teams, Team Barbados and the Cross-Border Team (Barbados & Trinidad & Tobago), shared their journeys from ideation to community engagement, offering practical insights into the challenges and possibilities of disaster-focused journalism in the region.

Their projects were developed as part of the wider PMA-implemented project, in partnership with HEI-DA and with the kind support of UNESCO IPDC and the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean.