The role of diaspora groups in development strategies, poverty reduction and economic growth has attracted considerable policy interest in recent years, but it is not always clear to governments or development actors how they can best engage with diasporas. This briefing explores some of the ways in which diasporas have been actively involved in development efforts, often of their own accord. It also considers some of the ways in which development actors, including country-of-origin and host-country governments, have sought to engage with diaspora groups. In conclusion, the briefing provides some policy suggestions for those who wish to partner with diasporas in development, based on current ‘good practice'.