The objective of this article is to describe some fundamental aspects of communication for development with the aim to highlight its scope, characteristics and importance for countries’ development and social change. For this purpose, some theory perspectives using the criteria of diverse experts are given as well as a reflexive analysis of the economic and social frame. The theory and analysis will develop concepts such as communication and development, education for development, social equity, and of course, the importance of the government offices. This paper also offers a reflection about the role and the position of mass media on this subject, in contrast with the local media. In addition, other aspects are commented on regarding the real possibilities for the change, on the frame of the actions promoted by the United Nations, through the Program for Development and the Program for Alimentation and Agriculture. The article concludes with basic elements to promote social change through participation models.