What he says still carries weight: no other ex-politician is respected more than former German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt, even though he has not held office for nigh on thirty years. When he explains the way of the world and expresses his view of the state of affairs, we listen. The Millennium Bambi 2011 goes to Helmut Schmidt.

The jury’s reasons for the award: “Helmut Schmidt is the political conscience of Germany. The former German Chancellor possesses razor-sharp acuity and unswerving moral principles, which many people feel politicians lack these days. Although he is advanced in years, Schmidt is indefatigable, involving himself in the major social issues, sending out warnings, and explaining what is going on. His experience and independence imbue his views with credibility. In his role as “elder statesman” the sought-after interviewee is never afraid to voice his opinion of the governments in power, bankers or business leaders. Although Helmut Schmidt has not held a political office since 1982, he is still respected and revered like no other former politician. The Germans are proud of their former Chancellor and so they are also more than likely prepared to forgive him for being a chain-smoker, anytime, anywhere.”