What is an authoritative report aimed at educating readers and often used in politics and policy?

A white paper is recognized as an authoritative report that seeks to inform and educate its audience about specific issues, particularly in the realm of politics and policy. It typically presents a problem, outlines a solution or proposed strategy, and often serves as a valuable tool for decision-makers and stakeholders. White papers are commonly used by governments and organizations to communicate their position on a particular topic or to advocate for specific policies, presenting well-researched arguments and findings.

In contrast, other types of papers serve different purposes. Red papers may refer to documents that address certain urgent issues or report findings in a less structured format, while yellow papers can denote various unofficial documents with specific applications or technical discussions. Green papers, on the other hand, are typically more exploratory; they often present ideas for discussion and feedback rather than offering definitive solutions, making them less authoritative than white papers. This distinction emphasizes the white paper's role as a comprehensive resource for guiding informed decisions in the policy-making process.