Migration plays a key role in the sustainable development of countries of origin, transit and destination, both at national and local levels. Despite many negative connotations and stereotypes, migration helps build connections, transform communities and empower men and women around the world. Focusing on the interplay between emigration and local development is central to broader efforts to strengthen local development in countries of origin. The positive experience of some countries, as demonstrated by the case of Moldova, challenges the hypothesis that emigration is a permanent loss for countries of origin. Diaspora representatives play an enabling role as agents of development and bearers of social capital for the benefit of their home communities. Through its Global Approach to Migration and Mobility, the EU has developed a balanced and comprehensive external migration policy that includes migration and development among its four operational priority areas.