View source for Social Media in Emergencies (Part of UNHCR Emergency Handbook)

{{Guideline
|Publishing Organisation=UNHCR
|Language=English
|Year Published=2020
|Target Audience=Policy Makers, Practitioners
|Status=Published
|Covers Thematic=Content creation, Crisis communication
|Audience Experience Level=Starter
|Source Website=https://emergency.unhcr.org/entry/29319/social-media-in-emergencies
|Synopsis='''Key points'''
* Document what you are seeing: 
** take photos and short videos.
* Seek informed consent from anyone featured in your photographs and videos. 
** Make sure they understand that their image might be distributed widely on internet, broadcast on television, etc.
* Where possible, let people talk about their own experiences; 
** do not speak for them.
* For video, 
** hold the camera horizontally so television broadcasters can use it
* For Twitter, 
** turn on the SMS feature so you can send and receive messages via SMS without need of an internet connection.



'''Top Tips for Staff Using Social Media'''
* Think before you post and use common sense
* Be aware that, when you share facts or opinions, it may be assumed that you endorse that information.
**Don't say anything online that you wouldn't be comfortable seeing quoted on CNN, being asked about by your mother, or justifying to your boss.
* Be honest.
**Do not mislead or invite misinterpretation. If you did not witness an event, do not imply that you did. UNHCR's credibility may be at stake.
* Be accurate.
**Outdated figures or erroneous information can spread rapidly on socialmedia. Always double-check your facts before posting.
* Be clear.
**If your post might be misinterpreted, find a clearer way to phrase your message.
* Exercise discretion.
**Leave sensitive issues to personnel specifically authorized to speak on them. When in doubt, consult your supervisor.
* Respect confidentiality.
**Do not share information that is not meant for external audiences, such as details that could compromise diplomacy or protection.
* Ensure safety and protection.
**Bear in mind that information you post, especially locations or personal details, could put you or others at risk.
* Show respect and seek consent.
**When you talk about, photograph or videotape people we protect and assist, strive to respect their dignity.
* Avoid taking sides.
**UNHCR personnel must honor humanitarian principles, including impartiality, neutrality and independence. Refrain from making political statements that might compromise UNHCR's relationships with governments, partners or other stakeholders.
* Stick with what you know.
**When talking about UNHCR's work, focus on your own experiences and areas of expertise.
|Is Archived=No
|Data Sources=Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube
|Disaster Management Phase=During
}}