Negotiating Coordination and Freedom of Speech: Challenges for Strategic Communication

Truls Strand Offerdal () and Øyvind Ihlen ()
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Truls Strand Offerdal: University of Oslo
Øyvind Ihlen: University of Oslo

A chapter in Kommunikation als Strategie, 2025, pp 77-86 from Springer

Abstract: Zusammenfassung This essay examines the debate on unified versus polyphonic communication in organizations, particularly during crises. While a singular voice is often seen as essential for consistent messaging, allowing multiple voices can enhance participation and critique as well as ensure the freedom of speech of organizational members. Focusing on the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH) during the COVID-19 pandemic, the analysis highlights the challenges of balancing coordinated messaging with the freedom of speech among the research staff. The NIPH’s unique position as a public bureaucratic entity underscores the need for effective negotiation strategies regarding this challenge. Key strategies discussed include managing official and unofficial communications and a policy requiring employees to alert the management before voicing criticism of the institute’s public position. This exploration offers insights into navigating communication challenges during periods of uncertainty.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-658-48305-0_5

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