The Action Paper provides the information necessary for effective participation in the discussion of the agenda items. This information includes: (i) identification of relevant documentation; (ii) identification, under each substantive agenda item, of the issue before the Assembly and the expected decision or draft resolution when available to date; (iii) background information (if the relevant background includes a separate document, it is issued as a working document).

The Action Paper also provides the basis of the draft summary report of the session. It is written in past tense to streamline the reporting process. A summary of the discussion that led to decisions under each agenda item will be prepared by the Secretariat and the Rapporteur and will be included in the draft summary report. Draft decisions and resolutions are proposed in the document in order to focus on decisions during the discussion of each agenda item without prejudice to the prerogatives of any Member State, partner organization, Officer or the Executive Secretary.