A Conversation with Former Nuremberg Prosecutor Prof. Benjamin B. Ferencz at Brandeis University

During a visit to Brandeis University on November 7, 2014 hosted by the International Center for Ethics, Justice and Public Life, Professor of International Law and Former Nuremberg Prosecutor Benjamin B. Ferencz shared some of what he has come to believe the world now needs.

Benjamin B. Ferencz:
In 1945 Benjamin B. Ferencz, then only 27 years old, was appointed Chief Prosecutor for the United States in the Einsatzgruppen Case, a part of the post-World War II Nuremberg War Crimes Trials. It became what the Associated Press called “the biggest murder trial in history.” It was his first case.

Twenty-two defendants were charged with murdering over a million people. All of the defendants were convicted, and 13 were sentenced to death. The verdict was hailed as a great success for the prosecution.

Ferencz’s primary objective had been to establish a legal precedent that would encourage a more humane and secure world in the future. Following that experience he dedicated his life to advocating steps to replace the “rule of force with the rule of law.” He is a strong supporter of the International Criminal Court.