ABSTRACT
The European Commission has the exclusive right to propose new laws for the entire European Union (EU). Before the commission proposes new legislation, it often starts with a green paper and a white paper. They can be likened to preparatory work on national laws. Early on in the legislative process, the commission presents a green paper, in which it outlines some general ideas and proposals; it shows what possible action it is considering. This is a basis for debate. The point is to consult interested parties before the actual legislative proposal. All important new initiatives are preceded by an impact assessment. In the impact assessment, the commission looks at the economic, social and environmental impact of the proposal. The commission's most visible consultation tool is the open public consultation. If one-third of the EU countries' parliaments object, the European Commission has to reconsider the proposal.
