The goal of the International Finance Corporation is to promote sustainable development through private sector investment in developing countries in order to reduce poverty and improve people's lives. IFC often supports investments that involve complex social and environmental issues, and it takes these issues very seriously. IFC recognizes that the resettlement of people from their homes or displacement of people from their livelihoods is economically and socially disruptive and may affect some people living close to the edge of survival. Where resettlement is unavoidable, each project requires its utmost attention. IFC considers resettlement an opportunity to improve peoples' lives by providing sustainable benefits and improved means of livelihood to people affected by IFC-financed projects. This handbook outlines methods and practices for the preparation of successful resettlement action plans conforming to IFC's policy on involuntary resettlement. As a reference for project developers, it describes the issues associated with the economic and physical displacement of people and provides an appreciation of the level of effort a project will require. It is intended primarily to assist the practitioners, consultants, NGOs, and community-based organizations that design and carry out resettlement activities. The handbook may be used in conjunction with IFC's public consultation Good Practice Manual and its Community Development Guide.