Ambassador Wolfgang Ischinger has been Chairman of the Munich Security Conference since 2008. He is Senior Professor for Security Policy and Diplomatic Practice at the Hertie School of Governance, Berlin, and Adjunct Professor at the University of Tuebingen.
Ischinger began his diplomatic career in 1973 in the cabinet of the UN Secretary-General. In 1975, he joined the Federal Republic of Germany’s Foreign Service. As part of his distinguished diplomatic carreer, he served as German Ambassador in Washington, DC from 2001 to 2006.
From 2008 to 2014, he was also Global Head of Government Relations of Allianz SE, Munich. Ambassador Ischinger serves on a number of corporate boards and advisory councils. He is also a member of the Trilateral Commission and the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR).
Read Amb. Ischinger's full bio here.
Two speakers honored this year's awardee with laudation speeches:
General Jim Jones, U.S. Marine Corps General (ret.) and former National Security Advisor, who has extensive transatlantic experience through his positions as Commander, United States European Command (COMUSEUCOM) and Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) and chairman of the Atlantic Council, as well as Professor Dr. Wolfgang Reitzle, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Linde AG, who has held high-level positions in the automotive industry both in the US and Germany. Click on the following links to access General Jones’ full CV and Professor Reitzle’s full CV.
The list of past laureates can be found here.
Who is recognized?
People who have made special contributions to the transatlantic relationship in their field. The following criteria should be met:
The spectrum of award nominees includes innovative, creative, and intellectual achievements as well as “established” personalities.
The independent jury consists of seven distinguished personalities from the transatlantic business, media and political community.
Each year, a jury meeting is held.
Bernhard Mattes, President, AmCham Germany & Chairman, Ford-Werke GmbH, is acting Chairman.
Advisory Council:
Jutta Falke-Ischinger, Senior Advisor Public Affairs, Burson-Marsteller GmbH
Press Release 2016
Photo Download (for press only)
Press Release 2015
Press Release 2014 & Speeches