Ukraine in the dark: what to do when power cuts disrupt communication and engagement strategies
Power plant in Ukraine. Credit: Nenad Stojkovic/Flickr
The latest airstrikes on critical infrastructure in Ukraine have left many regions in the dark and cold, and millions of people without means of communication with the outside world. In a crisis of this scale, communication is critical – but the networks and channels that people rely on can shatter just when they are most needed.
For affected people in Ukraine now coping with freezing winter temperatures and limited power, the humanitarian response must prioritise keeping people connected – to life-saving information, to those providing assistance and to one another. Resilient communication in a crisis saves lives, and brings hope and comfort in the darkest of times.
Understand and engage with the full spectrum of communication channels
The Ukraine response has employed one of the most technological approaches to communication and community engagement to date, relying heavily on mobile devices and wireless internet to keep people connected. But what does this mean when electrical supply networks are unable to function and power cuts disrupt our communication and engagement strategies?
The important thing to remember is that each communication channel is just that – a single channel. Responders should understand and engage with the full spectrum of channels that people trust and use, so that if a single channel fails, information can flow around the blockage. At the same time, recognise that certain channels may be relied on by specific groups. If a communication channel is disconnected, identify who you will reach with other channels and who will be excluded, and consider ways to bridge these gaps.
Even in the face of the conflict, internet connectivity in Ukraine has been resilient and largely functional. However, responders should be prepared for disruptions and remember that there is more to wireless technologies than just the internet. Given the ongoing likelihood of disruption, a multimedia approach is key to effective communication, and responders should plan accordingly. This approach best safeguards against disruption and gives audiences options for accessing information.
CDAC Network members like BBC Media Action help deepen engagement with media partners that work across different platforms. Pre-crisis support to diverse channels, including radio and online media, is key to reaching people when in need. A tried and tested alternative pathway is radio broadcasting, capable of reaching a huge number of people. Another pathway pioneered by CDAC members is handheld radio systems that allow small groups to talk to each other. In some contexts, this provides a low-cost and accessible way to engage with communities and disseminate critical information.
Going back to basics can sometimes be the best option. Handing out printed materials or using recorded messages that can be played offline can be effective ways to share information, and face-to-face interaction remains one of the most resilient channels for facilitating conversations with communities.
Engagement with media is key
The targeted attacks on critical infrastructure emphasise the importance of engaging with and supporting media actors in Ukraine. Continuous engagement with media can build resilient communication and engagement strategies, since media partners understand who uses and trusts which channels – from broadcast television to social media groups to online personalities with large followings. This in-depth understanding of the landscape allows media to rapidly reach millions of people in even hard-to-reach areas with life-saving information and two-way communication. Humanitarian responders may struggle to achieve a similar reach in crisis.
With advertising revenues dwindling for local media, support for existing channels is vital to ensure that communication networks are resilient to unpredictable power cuts and that people have access to the information they need. Local media organisations and international media development actors should be supported to mainstream their guidance and expertise. It is more important than ever that they receive reliable support to safely and effectively provide important information and foster dialogue among audiences.
Authors: Cian Ginley Ibbotson (BBC Media Action) and CDAC Network
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