This Research Handbook on Development and the Informal Economy captures the magnitude of the informal economy for the global labour force. It unravels numerous concepts, definitions and methods of data collection to offer valuable insight into the differences between the informal, non-observed and shadow economies. Situating the concept of the informal economy within the evolution of development theories, strategies and thinking over the past 50 years, this Research Handbook also explores the future direction of the informal economy. Chapters consider recent debates around the transition from the informal to the formal economy, a transition which would reshape the social contract between people and state. Expert international contributors examine a range of policies, actions, regions and groups of vulnerable workers to uncover which forms of organisation will lead to more power, recognition and sustainable livelihoods for the working poor. They also analyse how innovation, knowledge co-production and technological change at a grassroots level can improve the working and living conditions of the informal worker. This Research Handbook maps the changing landscape of the informal economy and will be an essential resource for academics, researchers and students in the fields of development studies, economics and international studies.