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The Government Communication Office receives the Prizma Award for crisis communication in the wake of last year's floods

When the catastrophic storm that struck much of Slovenia in August 2023 caused a widespread disaster, the Government Communication Office (UKOM) immediately provided a rapid, coordinated and efficient flow of information between field teams, the government and the population through official communication channels and close cooperation with the media. Its professionalism in this regard was recognised by the Slovenian Public Relations Association with the Prizma Award.
Ukom representatives with director Petra Bezjak Cirman, holding the award in her hands

The UKOM team after receiving the award at Slovenian Public Relations Conference (SKOJ).

As the expert jury of the Slovenian Public Relations Association also noted, UKOM had to immediately set up a system and meet the challenge of informing the public in a timely and credible manner about the situation, the emergency measures and the progress of the many recovery projects. "The approach was designed with a multi-faceted communication strategy, where saving lives was the first priority. Crisis press conferences, news and online channels were followed throughout the country, with trained experts taking a leading role. An emphasis on the careful choice of tone in such messaging was noted, which reinforced a sense of security and community. The result was an efficient flow of information and aligned coordination between the different services and actors, as well as the management of the crisis situation in general, which contributed to the public's sense of confidence in the measures. The UKOM team showed dedication, resourcefulness and quick learning," stated the award's explanatory note. 

Petra Bezjak Cirman, Director of UKOM, said that she was proud that the Government Communication Office received this highest award, one that was earned by the teamwork of all the staff. The efficient flow of information and coordination among all the actors involved could not have been achieved without the active participation of all the relevant government departments and their communicators, and they are to be thanked for their efforts. 

The Prizma is a national professional award presented by the Slovenian Public Relations Association at the annual Public Relations Conference, given to Slovenian organisations for excellence in their public relations communication programmes. The award reflects professionalism, knowledge, creativity and effectiveness in the field of public relations.