In the winter of 1997, an 18-year-old Kai Brand Jacobsen set foot in Cluj-Napoca for the first time. What was meant to be a brief visit to meet Denisa — whom he had met at an international summer school in Norway — turned into the beginning of a lifelong connection to the city and Romania. Cluj, as Jacobsen fondly recalls, was different then: fewer parks, fewer restaurants, and a quieter charm. Yet, what captivated him was the vibrant energy of its people, their hospitality, and a palpable passion for life that made him fall in love with the city.
Over the next 25 years, Jacobsen not only made Cluj his home but also transformed it into a hub for global peacebuilding through his work with the Romanian Peace Institute (PATRIR). The organization, founded in Transylvania, has grown into a globally recognized institution addressing conflicts, promoting education, and fighting violence. Jacobsen’s contributions have not only impacted communities worldwide but have also helped Cluj emerge as a center for education, innovation, and peace.
While PATRIR is not a startup in the traditional sense, its story mirrors the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of our Startups&TheCity project. Born in Cluj-Napoca, this NGO has leveraged innovation, collaboration, and a bold vision to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from conflict resolution to education reform.
Much like a successful startup, PATRIR has scaled its impact globally, demonstrating how cities like Cluj can serve as launchpads for initiatives that change the world. Over a coffee, I sat down with Kai Brand Jacobsen to explore the story of PATRIR and his journey as its founder, as he embarks on a new role outside Cluj and PATRIR.
PATRIR: A Global Force for Change
For over two decades, Jacobsen dedicated himself to PATRIR, an organization deeply rooted in the belief that peace begins at the community level. Under his leadership, PATRIR has worked tirelessly to address issues such as bullying in schools, gender-based violence, and domestic abuse, all while promoting healthy communication and relationships. Through workshops and educational campaigns, the institute has reached thousands of students and educators across Romania, empowering them with the tools to create safe, inclusive environments.
The organization’s influence, however, extends far beyond Romania. PATRIR has played pivotal roles in mediating global conflicts, including facilitating peace talks in Nepal, Northern Ireland, and other war-torn regions. Its innovative approaches to addressing the root causes of violence have earned it invitations from the United Nations and governments worldwide. The institute’s expertise in ceasefires, peace agreements, and community rebuilding has saved lives and restored hope in regions devastated by war.
The Synergy Between Cluj and PATRIR
Jacobsen attributes much of PATRIR’s success to the mutual relationship between the institute and Cluj. The city, with its rich cultural and intellectual life, has provided a fertile ground for PATRIR’s educational initiatives and campaigns. Collaborating with local authorities, civic organizations, and educators, PATRIR has not only contributed to Cluj’s development but also inspired its citizens to embrace their role in building a more peaceful society.
“Cluj has grown alongside PATRIR,” Jacobsen reflects. “The people here—teachers, artists, entrepreneurs—are the heart of the city, and their energy inspires everything we do.”
A Call to Action: Supporting PATRIR’s Mission
PATRIR’s work is more urgent than ever, as the world faces increasing violence and instability. Jacobsen highlights the institute’s current campaign to expand its impact locally and globally, particularly in education and peacebuilding. “We’re working on future education in Romania to achieve deep, systemic change,” he explains. This initiative involves creating safe schools, overcoming bullying, and equipping children with practical skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, and collaboration—tools essential for thriving in today’s world and building a better future.
Equally vital is PATRIR’s continued fight against gender-based violence, ensuring that every individual, whether in Romania or beyond, has the opportunity to grow up in safety and dignity. On the global stage, PATRIR is actively supporting communities ravaged by war, including those in Ukraine, Israel, Palestine, and Lebanon. Through interventions to prevent conflicts, efforts to assist survivors, and programs to rebuild lives after violence, PATRIR stands as a beacon of hope. “We’re asking people to help us make a difference in this critical moment,” Jacobsen urges, emphasizing that even in the midst of the worst violence, collective action can pave the way for peace.
A Personal and Professional Farewell
This year marks a significant transition for Jacobsen as he embarks on a new role outside Cluj, one that allows him to continue his global peacebuilding efforts. Despite the move, his connection to Cluj remains steadfast. “Cluj will always be home,” he says. “If I could choose, I would stay here every day. But wherever I go, this city will be a part of me.”
Jacobsen envisions a bright future for Cluj, confident that the city’s dynamism and creativity will continue to flourish. For him, Cluj is just at the beginning of its next chapter, one that will see it rise as a leader in innovation, education, and community building.
To support PATRIR’s vital work and contribute to making a difference, visit patrir.ro/donate.
