Examining access to and trust in sources of COVID-19 information among CALD Asian communities in New Zealand

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, effective crisis communication has been crucial yet challenging, especially for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. This study explored how CALD Asian communities in New Zealand accessed and trusted various sources of COVID-19 information. A cross-sectional online survey with 1,267 Asian respondents was conducted in 2021. Findings revealed that participants engaged with diverse sources for COVID-19 information, despite delays in government efforts to provide linguistically appropriate information. Those without English as a first language tended to have access to fewer information sources. Ethnic group preferences varied: Indian and South East Asian groups favoured official channels (mainstream media and government websites), the Chinese group preferred messaging applications and workplaces, and the Korean group showed a preference for ethnic community media. Trust was higher in formal information sources than online platforms and personal networks. Increased trust was noted in social media among non-English speakers and messaging applications among Koreans, while decreased trust was seen in messaging applications among Chinese and workplace information among Koreans. This research underscores the necessity of multifaceted, linguistically, and culturally appropriate crisis communication strategies. It advocates for proactive measures to establish networks for distributing vital information to CALD communities during future crisis communication.