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Agroforestry systems include both traditional and modern land-use systems where trees are managed together with crops and/or animal production systems in agricultural settings. When designed and implemented correctly, agroforestry combines the best practices of tree growing and agricultural systems resulting in more sustainable use of land. Agroforestry takes place in both tropical and temperate regions, producing food and fibre for better food and nutritional security. It also sustains livelihoods, alleviates poverty and promotes productive, resilient agricultural environments. The potential of agroforestry to contribute to sustainable development has been recognized in international policy meetings, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), justifying increased investment in its development. One of the policy challenges facing agroforestry in many countries is the emphasis on monoculture food, industrial agricultural crops and mechanized farming (often subsidized) discouraging the integration of trees into farmland. The general objective of this guide is to assist countries to develop policy, legal and institutional conditions that facilitate the adoption of agroforestry and recognize its contribution to national development. This includes better communication between sectors and the mainstreaming of agroforestry in national policies. These guidelines were developed from a mix of workshops, structured interviews with experts, and detailed national case studies from both the developed and developing world.