Social media guidelines for maritime transport crises situations in the EU area

This study aims to give better understanding of social media use in crisis communication between different maritime operators and authorities in the EU area. Study is based on several articles, recommendations and guidelines of different EU Member state authorities, and previous studies on crisis management and social media use in crisis communication especially relating the maritime sector. Research shows that maritime operators and authorities would benefit from common instructions in social media use at crisis communication. Collectively implemented social media guidelines and communication between all authorities, third sector organizations and ship-owners would improve the flow of information, clarify the division of responsibilities, speed up the aid efforts and help to minimize the damage caused by an injury. At the moment EU and Member State level authorities or shipping companies have their own directions and prevailing practices. This can cause confusion and slower response time for the required action.