green paper
Noun: A green paper is an official document published by a government to present preliminary policy proposals, ideas, or options on a specific topic. Its primary purpose is to invite public consultation, stimulate discussion, and gather feedback from stakeholders and the general public before any final decisions or legislation are formulated.
A green paper is typically issued early in the policy-making process. It outlines potential approaches to an issue, often posing questions to readers, and invites written responses. It is a consultative document, distinct from a white paper, which usually presents finalized government policy.
- The government issued a green paper on the future of digital education to seek input from teachers and parents.
- Before drafting the new environmental law, the ministry published a green paper to stimulate public debate.
- The proposals in the green paper on healthcare reform are now open for discussion until the end of the month.
- To issue/launch/publish a green paper: The standard collocations for introducing this document.
- The commission will publish a green paper on urban transport next week.
- Green paper on [topic]: The standard phrasing to specify the subject area.
- We are reviewing the green paper on corporate taxation.
- White paper (noun): An authoritative report or guide that informs readers and often states the government's established policy or proposed solution on an issue. It is generally more definitive than a green paper.
- Consultation document (noun): A broader term that can include green papers, white papers, and other reports seeking feedback.
- Policy proposal (noun): A plan or suggestion for a course of action, which is the core content of a green paper.
- Consultation document
- Discussion paper
- Preliminary report
The term "green paper" is specific to governmental and political contexts, particularly within the Westminster system (e.g., the UK, Canada, Australia). The "green" in the name traditionally refers to the color of the document's cover. Its fundamental characteristic is its tentative and consultative nature.
- a preliminary report of government proposals that is published in order to stimulate discussion