Jacob Blasius is a Danish student leader and the Executive Director of the Global Student Forum, the worldwide umbrella organisation representing student movements across more than 130 countries and territories. He leads GSF’s global advocacy on the right to education, public financing of higher education, academic freedom, and the role of students in shaping international governance. In his role, he works in close collaboration with the organisation’s Steering Committee, ensuring that GSF’s strategic direction, governance, and international engagements reflect the collective leadership of its member organisations.
During his mandate, GSF has strengthened its presence in multilateral spaces, including the United Nations, UNESCO, and global financing mechanisms for education. He is responsible for driving the organisation’s strategic development, coordinating international campaigns, building coalitions, and advancing GSF’s work on youth and student participation in global decision-making.
Jacob has authored and co-authored several key GSF publications, including guides on artificial intelligence in education, sustainability in student organisations, and student rights–based advocacy. He has contributed to UN consultations, prepared policy submissions to Special Rapporteurs, and represented the global student movement at major international summits.
His work spans public communication, educational justice, human rights, student welfare, and democratic governance. He has spoken widely on the future of education, the role of civil society in global policy, and the need for stronger and more equitable international systems.
Background
Prior to becoming Executive Director, Jacob significantly contributed to the European student movement, serving as a Board Member of the European Students' Union (ESU) and Chairperson of Students Organizing for Sustainability International. His tenure strengthened transnational cooperation among student organizations and fostered critical dialogue between student representatives, policymakers, and international institutions.
In addition to his leadership at GSF, Jacob Blasius has been a member of the Youth Reference Group at the United Nations Youth Office (UNYO) and completed a two-year tenure as the Danish Youth Delegate to the UN for Democracy and Partnership, supported by the Danish Youth Council.
Jacob is doing an MSc in International Relations with a specialization in Global Refugee Studies from Aalborg University, where he previously earned a Bachelor’s degree in Language and International Studies. His earlier roles include his work as International Officer at the National Union of Students in Denmark (DSF).
