Plan of Action

Abstract

Russell was the guiding force behind the creation of the International War Crimes Tribunal, often dubbed the “Russell Tribunal,” but it soon gathered a momentum of its own and became divided over issues related to format, legal precedent, bureaucratic structure, and the clash of personalities. Not only did the British philosopher provide the overall conceptual framework, but also the prestige attached to his name brought publicity and induced many prominent intellectuals to become tribunal members. Russell financed the tribunal’s activities with funds from loans and an advance on his autobiography. In a manner reminiscent of the Trotsky defense committee, the BRPF infrastructure served the tribunal, as well. Russell was initially the benefactor and the will, the energetic Schoenman the facilitator and instrument acting on the elderly man’s behalf. Soon, Russell’s declining involvement (due to age) and Schoenman’s dynamism rendered the latter’s role so prominent that he became widely accused of using the “old man’s” name to advance his own positions.