The choice of the convention perimeter is of strategic importance for the implementation of the convention. It defines the area in which the signatory states are to implement their sustainability strategy which will be developed specifically for the Carpathians. For this reason the choice of an appropriate approach for the delimitation of the scope of application is of utmost significance. The process must serve to strengthen confidence of the signatory states, as well as of the Carpathian's local politicians, in the convention as a transnational instrument for sustainable development. The perimeter must therefore be defined in a way that is acceptable at the political level, and is comprehensible for the local inhabitants. At the same time, the perimeter must represent the Carpathian region in such a manner that the convention can really become effective. Within these sometimes conflicting interests, a solution must be found. Starting from these considerations, the approach should internalize the following principles in the definition of the Carpathian region:

Based on these general principles a four-step procedure is proposed for the delimitation of the convention perimeter (Fig. 3):

In a further level the preliminary, rough-drafted convention area must be adapted to the local situation. This is especially necessary because, through the use of higher ranking criteria, the local features in the individual states cannot be adequately depicted. Therefore, the delimitation of the convention must take into account the thematic criteria analysed at a local scale.