Our experts from the Agri Policy Lab (Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hynek Roubík and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Stella Tsani) prepared a summary that can help you understand the difference between Policy Briefs, White Papers, and Green Papers.
Policy Briefs, White Papers, and Green Papers serve distinct purposes in research dissemination and decision-making. While all three documents aim to inform readers about specific topics or issues, they differ in their scope, format, and intended audience. Understanding the nuances between Policy Briefs, White papers, and Green papers is crucial for effectively communicating research findings and advocating for actionable solutions.
POLICY BRIEFS
A policy brief is a concise and targeted document that summarizes the key findings and recommendations of a research project, with the primary aim of influencing policy decisions or stimulating action.
It serves as a call to action, urging policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public to address pressing issues or challenges identified in the research.
The standard format of a policy brief:
Executive summary: Provides a succinct overview of the issue or topic, highlighting the main findings and recommendations.
Introduction: Sets the context and significance of the issue, outlining why action is necessary.
Approach and results: Summarize the research methodology and present key findings and data analysis.
Conclusion: Interprets the data and findings in the context of the issue, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the problem.
Implications and recommendations: Discusses the potential consequences of inaction and offers actionable recommendations supported by evidence.
WHITE PAPERS
A white paper is an authoritative document that provides in-depth analysis and insights into a particular topic or issue, with the goal of presenting a well-supported solution or course of action.
Unlike policy briefs, white papers delve into comprehensive research and present a nuanced understanding of the subject matter, often targeting a specialized audience.
The standard format of a white paper:
- Abstract: Offers a concise summary of the main points and arguments presented in the paper.
- Problem Statement: Clearly articulates the issue or challenge that the paper aims to address, providing context for the subsequent discussion.
- Background: Provides detailed information and context about the issue, including relevant historical, theoretical, and empirical perspectives.
- Solution: Presents a comprehensive analysis of potential solutions or strategies supported by evidence and research findings.
- Conclusion: Summarizes the major findings and arguments presented in the paper, reiterating the importance of the proposed solution.
GREEN PAPERS
A green paper is a consultation document issued by a government or organization that outlines preliminary proposals for discussion and public feedback.
It serves as a starting point for policy development, seeking input from stakeholders, experts, and the general public before finalizing policy decisions.
The standard format of a green paper:
- Context and background: Provides background information on the issue or topic under consideration, outlining current challenges and areas for potential policy intervention.
- Discussion of proposals: Presents preliminary policy proposals or options for addressing the identified issues, often accompanied by rationale and supporting evidence.
- Stakeholder consultation: Encourages feedback and input from stakeholders, experts, and the public through consultations, surveys, and submissions.
- Next steps: Outline the process for further policy development, including timelines for feedback collection, analysis, and decision-making.
- Transparency and accountability: Emphasizes transparency in the policymaking process by soliciting public input and ensuring that decisions are informed by diverse perspectives and evidence-based analysis.
Are you interested and looking for more details?
Do you need help with your policy document development or policy analysis?
Contact our Agri Policy Lab via email at roubik@ftz.czu.cz with the subject “Agri Policy Lab”.
Download the Commentary “Policy Briefs vs. White/Green Papers: Understanding the Difference” in PDF HERE under commentaries for download.