Aiming to achieve the incorporation of gender sensitivity into all programmes activities in all sectors, this document considers gender-based priorities in programming for unstable environments.

For this purpose, it argues that assessment must consider, and programme implementation take specific account of, traditional social and economic roles of men, children and women and the extent to which these have been changed or are in the process of changing on account of an emergency.

The guidelines aim to ensure that in times of humanitarian crises, the differential needs of the entire community are taken into account, and that in the delivery of services, the rights of all individuals, both male and female, are accorded equal priority.