The UK government wants to educate PR professionals on counter-terrorism. The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and the government’s Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) have partnered in producing a guide discussing the influence and value of communications “before, during, and after major incidents.”

The key conclusion was that communications and security operatives should collaborate to avoid the risk of terrorism targetted at businesses or communities.

The 38-page model provides guidance encouraging professionals to be circumspect of the multitude of potential perils organisations are facing “from left and right-wing terrorism to cybercrime and hacktivism.” The research was conducted in accordance with the interviews of 30 comms administrators and defence experts from 24 institutions that have undergone subversive-related occurrences. The investigation found that the security culture of their business significantly influences the success of communications. Consequently, the guidance suggests that PR professionals should work with security operatives when preparing for a crisis.

The model includes an in-depth repertoire of resources for individuals in comms and suggests the proven methodology on how and what to convey during terrorist attacks. The exemplar also highlights the cruciality of communications in dissuading terrorism, advising businesses on how to protect themselves.

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