This guide from the Strong Cities Network (SCN) provides local governments with a set of tips to help them formulate a relevant and effective response after a terrorist attack.

The first chapter focuses on community engagement, presenting how authorities can leverage existing networks to assess the impact of an attack, identify the most appropriate victim support mechanisms, and promote social cohesion for the community as a whole.

The second chapter is devoted to communication and aims to guide local authorities in developing awareness-raising plans to defuse any rise in tensions and to strengthen a city’s sense of identity, morale and cohesion.

The third chapter provides an overview of how cities can ensure that their communities receive appropriate psychosocial support.

Chapter 4 summarizes the key elements to consider to guide municipal officials in the aftermath of an attack, when tensions are at their peak.

Finally, the working papers, tools and complementary resources in both annexes can be used to support this work and monitor social media platforms, which can be a powerful tool for providing insight into different aspects of the city’s response.

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Marta Lopes is a Manager at ISD, working on the Strong Cities Network (SCN) international projects. Marta develops analyses and recommendations focused on local responses to hate, polarization and extremism based on research and engagement with SCN members. In addition, Marta leads SCN’s engagements in sub-Saharan Africa.