This study seeks to gain a deeper understanding of gendered processes that influence the decision to return home for internally displaced persons in Gulu district, Northern Uganda. Socio- culturally ascribed gender roles widen gender inequality and discriminate against women from participation in decision making processes. The study further examines how women and men interact with institutional policies which obscure their agency and capabilities to label them as vulnerable or mere recipients of relief. This study is qualitative having employed mainly qualitative methods of data collection. Analysis was based on the gender relations framework to examine relations between women and men; importance of the power context within which development takes place and; how gender relations are conflictive and collaborative characterised by a constant process of bargaining and negotiation.