Given that States within a particular geographic region or sub-region often share many of the same challenges and concerns when it comes to implementing a particular MEA, implementation action plans that are created by and for that particular region or sub-region can be extremely helpful.
One example of an MEA where this suggestion could be readily applicable and relevant is the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). The Convention contains regional implementation annexes specifically for Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, the Northern Mediterranean and Central and Eastern Europe. The development of Regional Plan of Action is not expressly envisaged under the Convention; but it expressly calls for the development of National Action Plan. Cooperation among States of specific regions addressed in the annexes can expedite the development of national plans, as the Parties of each region will have common responsibilities and obligations.
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) is another MEA that relies on regional and sub-regional initiatives for its effective implementation.
In addition to the examples below, see Guideline 46
and particularly the case study on CCAD. Guideline 11 also identifies some regional approaches, including regional agreements. Guideline 49(d) and the accompanying case studies survey a variety of regional centres that frequently work closely with the regional action plans.