The worldwide stock of international migrants has risen significantly in recent decades, from 77 million persons in 1960 to an estimated 214 million in 2010 – an increase of 177% – equivalent to just over 3% of the global population in 2010. In addition, the composition of migrant communities has also gone through major changes with more high-skilled migrants, more migrant women and a diversification of both countries of origin and destination. In the meantime, contacts with the origin countries have been greatly facilitated as a result of both recent advances in information and communication technology and decreasing transportation costs. In this context, the potential impact of diasporas on the development of origin countries has become a crucial issue for governments and development agencies.

The potential contribution of a diaspora to the economic and social development of its country of origin will depend on many factors, such as its size, average skill level, wealth, seniority and degree of organisation. This chapter presents a panorama of the diasporas, including children of immigrants, in OECD countries and discusses some of the main challenges and opportunities involved with channeling their economic potential to support the development of origin countries. Looking forward, the chapter also presents data on the desire to emigrate for different population groups, based on the results of the Gallup World Poll Survey.