Risk communication policies and strategies in Nepal and Switzerland: A comparative study

Risk communication is vital for effective Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM), yet its implementation varies across socio-political contexts. This study aims to compare risk communication policies in two countries-Nepal and Switzerland. It relies on a qualitative approach, combining desk study with semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions involving diverse stakeholders in both countries. The comparison highlights Switzerland's proactive and centralized approach, contrasting with Nepal's reactive and decentralized system. The findings, categorized into four primary themes, revealed that Nepal, has limited risk communication policies and instruments, despite having robust DRRM frameworks. Practical drills and simulations are not systematically conducted. In contrast, Switzerland demonstrates effective risk communication strategies, including the development of information platforms on natural hazards and early warning systems. Both countries have improved weather forecasting capabilities, enhancing their capacities to communicate warnings. Despite ongoing efforts, Nepal's warning messages, such as text message alerts, remain inadequate as they often lack behavioral recommendations and fail to reach the most vulnerable socio-demographic groups. In Switzerland instead, the plurality of public and private providers of risk and warning information has led to a critical duplication of messages, that can influence behavioral effectiveness before, during or after a disaster. Leveraging technology and fostering stronger partnerships between government agencies, civil societies, and private sectors are crucial steps for both countries to improve risk communication practices.