MEAs frequently provide terms that recognise the common but differentiated responsibilities of the Parties and, in that regard, call for developed nations to provide assistance to developing nations and nations with economies in transition so that they can meet their obligations under the agreement. This assistance can take many forms: technology transfer, capacity building and strengthening efforts, and financial assistance among others.
Lack of sufficient capacity to meet obligations imposed by an MEA (whether the lack is financial, technology, or skill-related) may be the most significant obstacle to the full implementation of many MEAs. As such, there is an abiding priority to develop and strengthen capacity. This is reflected in the adoption of the Bali Strategic Plan for Technology Support and Capacity-building, discussed following Guideline 33
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It should be noted that regional networking, sharing of experiences, and collaboration can be complicated when there are political tensions. Ironically, in such instances informal networking and collaboration can be the most feasible means for governments and their peoples to relate across borders. For example, informal and technical working groups, commissions, and exchanges have been able to work together in the Jordan River (Israel/Jordan), South Caucasus, and during the Cold War (US/USSR) when political relations were tense.
In addition to the examples in Guideline 49(d), the text following Guidelines 33 and 43 includes various examples and resources on capacity building and strengthening.