Norway’s Prime Minister holds COVID press conference for kids
Norway’s prime minister, Erna Solberg, held a press conference to answer childrens’ questions about the coronavirus this week.
The 30-minute event saw Solberg discuss how life had changed since the virus began spreading, the importance of staying home, and how the pandemic affects others (particularly vulnerable populations, such as the elderly). She also reassured kids that it was okay to feel scared during these times, and that the recovery rate for coronavirus is likely to be high amongst the 1,442 people infected thus far. Solberg additionally answered questions submitted by children, including about how they should celebrate birthdays (‘through FaceTime’), how long it may take to develop a vaccine (up to a year’) and more.
✅ FACTUAL HEALING. Fake news and digital misinformation have long been a problem. But with coronavirus, the consequences of inaccurate info can be deadly. Brands have sought to tackle it as of late; Major social platforms are teaming up to spot and remove false information on the virus, while companies like Microsoft have provided tools like COVID-19 tracking maps.
✋INFO FOR ALL. Sure, coronavirus will intensify expectations that brands and other organizations step up with reliable information. But it’s important to remember that as widespread (and spreading!) as coronavirus is, the impact of the disease varies widely. Which makes Erna Solberg’s initiative a great reminder to really think about groups that are often overlooked. Unless they’re child-focused, companies don’t often pay special attention to how kids are feeling during uncertain times. But this time, Norway’s PM stepped outside her usual duties. She took a cue from Mr. Rogers and his direct address to children after John F. Kennedy was assassinated.
If a prime minister can find the time to provide FACTUAL HEALING for those who are often overlooked, you can, too.
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