'Focus International' papers (formerly known as 'Background Briefs') cover topics of current international interest, such as international conferences, areas of conflict, the environment, world debt, development issues and drug trafficking. 'Research & Analytical Papers', produced by the FCO Research Analysts, provide in-depth assessments on countries, international organisations and global issues. The papers take a wider view on their subjects, both historical and forward-looking.
'Spotlight Britain' papers cover domestic policies and the work of British Government Departments, as well as information about various aspects of modern Britain.
Some 'Focus International' and 'Spotlight Britain' papers are translated into other languages; foreign language versions will normally appear a little later than the English version.
All briefing papers are posted on the website in the Adobe Acrobat PDF (Portable Document Format) file format. To view or print them, you will require the Adobe Acrobat reader software which may be downloaded free of charge from the Adobe website. As part of the personalisation facility, you can register your interest in all the briefing papers with the website. When a new paper is added to the collection, you will receive an email advising you of its availability.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office also produces a wide range of printed publications on subjects such as Britain's heritage and culture, education and social welfare systems, government and administration, industry and employment, science and technology and the economy. These may be requested overseas from the nearest British Embassy/High Commission or ordered on the Internet at our online bookstore. Visit the Publications from Britain website to find out more about FCO publications.
