In the evolving discourse of contemporary feminism, a critical intersection at the nexus of girlhood studies and the experiences of refugee and displaced girls is evident. We are witnessing unprecedented levels of such displacement because of conflict and climate change among other causes of instability, and this brings the challenges and the triumphs of girls on the move into sharp focus in feminist advocacy and scholarship. This Special Issue, Girls on the Move: Girlhood and Forced Displacement, Migration, and (Re)settlement, guest edited by Rosemary Carleton and Nesa Bandarchian Rashti explores some of the intricacies of this intersection and the articles as a whole advocate for a nuanced feminist response centered on the rights, needs, and voices of refugee and displaced girls.

The multifaceted plight of girls on the move encompasses not only the trauma of displacement but also the vulnerabilities associated with gender, age, and, often, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. They often navigate a precarious existence exacerbated by the gendered realities of displacement along with the loss of home and community that provide a sense of belonging. They are exposed to heightened risks of gender-based violence, limited or no access to education and healthcare, and, in many cases, the burden of caregiving that falls disproportionately on girls and young women in displaced families and communities. This intersectionality makes them uniquely disadvantaged yet it also often showcases remarkable agency and grit.

Kimberlé Crenshaw's (1991) notion of intersectionality is pivotal to recognizing and acknowledging the multifaceted experiences of marginalized individuals like refugee and displaced girls and, along with contemporary feminism's emphasis on inclusivity, provides a critical framework for understanding and addressing the complexities of their experiences. This entails a commitment to listening to and amplifying their voices, acknowledging their agency along with their contributions, and advocating for policies and practices that safeguard their rights.

This integration of migrant girls and young women into feminist discourse challenges us to confront the structural inequalities that underpin their displacement and to advocate for a world in which all girls, regardless of their circumstances, live free from violence, have access to quality education, and can participate fully in their communities. This requires a collaborative approach that bridges academic research, policy-making, and grassroots activism, leveraging the strengths of each to effect meaningful change. As Nira Yuval-Davis (2006) highlighted nearly two decades ago, an intersectional analysis is essential to understanding the nuanced experiences of young women and girls who find themselves in contexts of conflict and displacement.

The narratives of displaced girls offer invaluable insights into their agency and resourcefulness. By centering these narratives in feminist discourse, we acknowledge their significance, and we also harness their potential to inspire others. This intersection of girlhood studies, work on refugeetude and displacement, and contemporary feminism presents us with a crucial opportunity for inquiry and action.