A démarche (; from the French word whose literal meaning is "step" or "solicitation") has come to refer either to:

• a line of action; move; countermove; maneuver, especially in diplomacy; or
• a formal diplomatic representation (diplomatic correspondence) of the official position, views or wishes on a subject from one government to another government or intergovernmental organization.

Diplomatic démarches are delivered to the appropriate official of a government or organization. Démarches generally seek to persuade, inform or gather information from a foreign government. Governments may also use a démarche to protest or object to actions by a foreign government. Informally, the word is sometimes used as a verb to describe making or receiving such correspondence.