Often information is exchanged at a regional level, especially in anticipation of negotiations. In practice, information exchange and coordination often happens more frequently for existing MEAs, where there are established procedures, focal points, and funding. However, there is often a greater need for such measures when a new MEA is being considered and States may be unfamiliar with everything but the basic issues.
Certain global MEAs — including the CBD, UNFCCC, and UNCCD — convene regional meetings of States before their respective COPs. In advance of UNFCCC COPs, States usually meet in the State hosting the COP before the COP starts. The CBD COP process usually provides an avenue for regions to develop and discuss positions within each region before the COP. The UNCCD has a similar process, which is facilitated by regional offices. In most instances, such regional meetings are funded by developed countries with the monies administered by the respective MEA Secretariats.
In addition to the global processes and institutions, regional institutions often provide an opportunity for States to develop joint positions. For instance in the Caribbean, the CARICOM Secretariat has developed and coordinated ad hoc regional task forces to assist States in preparing for COPs and for major meetings (such as the 1992 Earth Summit). Similarly, the Environment and Sustainable Development Unit (ESDU) of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) is attempting to develop a process for the OECS States which involves assisting them with the negotiation process for major conventions. In Africa, UNEP often provides a forum through which African delegates can coordinate in advance of negotiations. In this process, African delegates divide themselves according to the thematic areas so that the relatively small delegations are able to keep track of all the issues (even if it is through the delegations of other, similarly situated States).