Legal Definitions - color book

A "color book" refers to an older practice in international law where a government would publish an official collection of its diplomatic documents, internal reports, and other papers related to its foreign policy. These compilations, often bound in distinctively colored covers (which gave them their name), were primarily intended to inform the country's legislature and the general public about specific international situations, especially during times of foreign crises or significant diplomatic events. While once a common method for governments to explain and justify their actions on the global stage, this practice is rarely used by most countries today.

• Example 1: Imagine a European nation in the early 20th century facing escalating tensions with a neighboring empire over a disputed border region. To explain its diplomatic maneuvers and present its case to its own parliament and citizens, the government might publish a "color book." This publication would contain official correspondence, treaties, and internal reports detailing the negotiations, alleged provocations from the other side, and the government's efforts to maintain peace, thereby justifying any subsequent military or diplomatic actions.

  This illustrates a "color book" being used during a foreign crisis to inform the legislature and public about the government's foreign policy and rationale.

• Example 2: Consider a situation in the late 19th century where a major power was involved in complex negotiations with several other nations regarding the division of colonial territories in Africa. To ensure domestic understanding and support for its strategic decisions and territorial claims, the government could have compiled a "color book." This document would include maps, diplomatic notes exchanged with other colonial powers, and internal analyses of the economic and strategic importance of the territories, all aimed at educating its public and securing legislative approval for its foreign policy objectives.

  This shows a "color book" informing the public and legislature about ongoing foreign policy, specifically related to colonial expansion and international negotiations.

• Example 3: Following a significant international incident, such as a naval confrontation or a major diplomatic breakdown, a government might have historically released a "color book" to present its official narrative. For instance, after a contentious maritime dispute, a nation could publish a collection of its naval orders, diplomatic protests, and intelligence reports. The purpose would be to demonstrate to its own citizens and the international community that its actions were justified and in line with international law, thereby shaping public opinion and defending its reputation.

  This example highlights the use of a "color book" to inform and persuade the public and legislature about a government's foreign policy decisions and actions during a specific international incident.