4.12.2. Signal travel buddy group

From October 2025, Signal is becoming part of APC workspaces as a communication tool, especially during travel and on-site coordination during convenings. This means its use is mandatory for all staff and everyone has to use the app. APC will provide orientation and tech and peer-to-peer support for this tool as for all the platforms and tools that are part of APC workspaces.

During the registration survey, participants are informed of the Signal Buddy group, asked to share their contacts details and whether they need any assistance in setting Signal on their phones. The systems and information coordinator is responsible to add all participants to the Signal travel group, which includes emergency contacts.

The group is part of APC’s mitigation measure and a way to easily follow all participants while on the move. Travelling participants can exchange regular updates en route, inform APC staff about their travel status, arrival at the convening location, delays, and any issues related to immigration that they may face.

APC’s suggested protocol is to send a message to the group before boarding, upon landing, and before border crossing. The Ops core team will help with follow-up and provide accompaniment to participants during travel if needed.

Depending on the safety measure agreed, the Signal buddy group might apply specific and regular check-ins, information about moving from one place to another and anything relevant to ensure the agreed safety protocol(s).

Once participants reach the convening destination, the Signal buddy group can expand its function and become the shared information board for:

• Schedule announcement
• Programme and other relevant information for all participants
• Social events and address/location sharing
• Updates and anything relevant for the on-site communication.