The Government of Gibraltar has launched an official WhatsApp Channel, providing a direct means of communication with the public for the dissemination of important public information. 

A statement from the Government follows below:

The WhatsApp Channel will be managed by the Communications Department and used  exclusively for the one-way distribution of important public information, similar to that currently  published as Official Notices in the traditional printing press. This includes updates such as major  road closures, serious public health information, and other important time-sensitive  announcements of significant public interest. 

Following the channel is voluntary and simple. WhatsApp users can go to the ‘updates’ section of  the app, search for HM Government of Gibraltar and follow the channel or click on the link at  the end of this press release. It is recommended that users enable notifications from the channel  to make sure that important messages are not missed. Followers may also choose to share or  forward Channel messages privately to others. 

The Government will not have access to followers’ phone numbers or any direct contact  information. Only limited information, such as a follower’s profile name or photo, may be visible  to administrators if a user reacts to a message depending on their personal privacy settings.  Followers are not visible to one another, and no participant can see who else follows the  Channel or their contact details. Messages will be one-way only, though followers may choose to  forward or share Channel updates privately if they wish. 

The launch of the WhatsApp Channel forms part of the Public Service’s wider commitment to  improving communication and accessibility. The new platform provides a modern, convenient  way for the public to receive official information directly to their devices, reflecting the way  people already communicate in their daily lives. It complements traditional channels of  communication while ensuring that essential updates reach as many people as possible, quickly  and reliably. 

The Channel will be used exclusively for informative content of public interest and will not be  used for promotional or political material. 

The community can join the Channel by tapping the link: HM Government of  Gibraltar WhatsApp Channel