A green paper represents the best that the government can propose on the given issue, but, as it remains uncommitted, it can without loss of face leave its final decision open until it has been able to consider the public reaction to it.
Green papers tend to be statements not of policy already determined, but of propositions put before the whole nation for discussion.
A green paper usually presents a range of ideas and is meant to invite interested individuals or organizations to contribute views and information.
A major review of defence policy in Australia culminated in a white paper issued in December 2000.
The purpose of the 2008 EU green paper on copyright was to foster a debate on how knowledge for research, science and education can best be disseminated in the online environment.