Between Cognitive Clarity and Emotional Reception: NCCN Crisis Communication in Multilingual Belgium during Climate Crises

Pilzinski, Léa
(2026)

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Details

Supervisors
Cougnon, Louise-Amélie
Faculty
Faculté de philosophie, arts et lettres
Degree label
Master [120] en communication multilingue, à finalité spécialisée: langues des affaires
Abstract
enThis research examines how the Belgian National Crisis Center (NCCN) communicates during climate crises and how these messages are perceived by French- and Dutch-speaking citizens in Belgium. The study focuses on three climate crises: the Ciara storm (2020), the July 2021 floods and the Kirk storm (2024). Using quantitative and qualitative data, the research combines an online survey, an interview with the NCCN spokesperson and a web analysis of the NCCN website and Facebook page. The findings show that NCCN communication is generally perceived as clear and consistent across linguistic groups. However, emotional responses vary depending on crisis severity and linguistic context, with French-speaking respondents generally reporting stronger emotional reactions. The study also highlights that multilingual crisis communication involves strong socio-cultural and emotional dimensions, which shape audience reception.