This briefing highlights the gendered impacts of conflict, especially as conflicts increasingly target civilian infrastructure and restrict humanitarian access. It contributes to the ongoing discussions on the Protection of Civilians (PoC) in Armed Conflict, the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda that addresses the devastating impacts of war on women and girls globally. This briefing calls all actors to ensure women’s dignity, safety and rights are not sidelined in conflict responses, supporting WPS/YPS commitments (e.g. UNSCR Resolution 1310, Resolution 1325, Resolution 2250 and Resolution 2467 among other related UNSC resolutions) to address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of women and girls in and after conflict, including protection from all forms of violence. It also calls for effective integration of gender perspectives into humanitarian aid.