Crisis Communication Think Tank launches international hub in Europe

The Crisis Communication Think Tank headquartered in Athens, Georgia, and housed in the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia has announced an expansion into Europe – significantly enhancing the reach of UGA’s distinctive approach to crisis communication.

A total of 23 new members across 10 countries will join the Think Tank to discuss and share insights about crisis management strategies and readiness approaches. The expansion will enhance the CCTT’s mission to connect scholars and practitioners of crisis communications and introduce a global perspective on leading issues in the space. 

“For years, there has been a shared wish among scholars and practitioners around the world to collaborate and innovate together in advancing crisis theory and practice,” said Dr. Yan Jin, director and co-founder of the CCTT. “The CCTT model, established in the U.S. at the University of Georgia over half decade ago, has trailblazed a pathway leading to building connections based on trust, deep connection, and meaningful partnerships.” 

The CCTT’s interdisciplinary approach creates a culture of cooperation among members and partners. By sharing varying experiences and strategies, individuals gain insight on solutions to the challenges they face. 

The CCTT has established a partnership with the University of Amsterdam to advance academic-industry collaborative research internationally. Think Tank members in the U.S. and other countries will co-explore core themes and patterns essential to global crisis management and risk mitigation. 

“The CCTT’s commitment to bridging theory and practice in crisis communication is inspiring, and I’m eager to contribute to its growth and impact on both sides of the Atlantic,” said Toni van der Meer, CCTT International Partner and Associate Professor of Communication Science at the University of Amsterdam. 

Twelve organizations are represented among the CCTT’s international practitioner members covering a wide array of industries. Each bringing distinct experiences and mindsets, the practitioner perspective is highly valuable in understanding the crisis landscape. 

“Now I have allies, friends, and confidants in the US and also all over the world who can help me in my practical work and I will be more than happy to do the same for them,” said Pavle Zelić, manager for international cooperation, European Integrations and Communications, Medicines and Medical Devices Agency of Serbia.

The inaugural CCTT international member gathering, scheduled for September 2024, will be co-hosted by Grady College and Amsterdam School of Communication Research (ASCoR) in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

“We look forward to our advanced collaboration with CCTT members and core partners in the U.S. and Europe, and many collaborators across countries and cultures. With ‘the best of both worlds’  from different research and practice areas, we will study stick crises and build organizational and societal readiness together,” said Jin.