How can constraints to integrating gender in relief be overcome' The 'tyranny of the urgent' in emergencies tends to override longer-term developmental concerns, including gender issues. This issue of 'Development and Gender in Brief' explores the potential for tackling existing constraints, including biases in the distribution of food aid. Also highlighted is the need for gender-sensitive policies to support coping strategies during times of emergency. Rehabilitation offers an opportunity to redress inequalities between men and women, but is it that simple' This question is examined with particular reference to rehabilitation work among rural communities and ex-fighters in Eritrea.