This working paper contributes to the necessary process of refining the way in which projects promoting diaspora engagement are designed. Furthermore, this paper contributes to balancing the current predominant perception of migration as an element of crisis by placing the focus also on positive aspects, and the important contributions that migrants and diasporas make. Based on ICMPD’s work, key observations and lessons learnt in four main areas have been highlighted, all chosen since they form central aspects in many of our projects.