Social media government communication and stakeholder engagement in the era of Covid-19: evidence from Italy

Purpose Covid-19 is a worldwide pandemic disease that changed the government communication to citizens about health emergency. This study aims provide in-depth research regional Italian through social media (SM) and its effects on citizens' engagement. Design/methodology/approach The uses case analysis, focusing context. In detail, authors analyse more involved regions in (Lombardy, Veneto, Piedmont, Emilia Romagna Tuscany) applying Crisis Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) model. Findings results reveal SM powerful tool for during emergency facilitating engagement with stakeholders. However, also highlight different perception timing of crisis. Practical implications suggest gap between answer public compared needs are clear since first earlier stage event. level very high phase event; however, be adequately developed, it requires specific information not always line citizens’ needs. Originality/value pandemic.