A Symbol of Freedom Under Debate
In a surprising statement, French lawmaker Raphaël Glucksmann has called for the United States to return the Statue of Liberty to France, arguing that America no longer upholds the founding values of freedom and democracy that the monument represents. His remarks have sparked international debate, with many dismissing the demand as unrealistic and unnecessary.
Glucksmann’s Argument: A Critique of America’s Values
Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament and a well-known advocate for human rights, criticized the current political and social climate in the U.S., claiming that the country has strayed from the ideals symbolized by the Statue of Liberty, which France gifted to the U.S. in 1886.
“We’re going to say to the Americans who have chosen to side with the tyrants, to the Americans who fired researchers for demanding scientific freedom: ‘Give us back the Statue of Liberty,’” Glucksmann declared.
While he did not provide specifics, his statement appears to reference recent controversies in the U.S. regarding academic freedom, government policies, and foreign relations.
The Statue’s Legacy: A Shared History
The Statue of Liberty, designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and constructed with the assistance of Gustave Eiffel, was a gift from France to celebrate America’s centennial and its commitment to liberty. The monument has stood as a beacon of hope for millions of immigrants arriving in the U.S. through Ellis Island, making it one of the most powerful symbols of freedom in the world.
Reaction: “Not Gonna Happen, Buddy”
Glucksmann’s comments have been met with widespread criticism, particularly from American commentators and political analysts. Ian Jaeger, a well-known political commentator, dismissed the idea with a blunt response:
“Not gonna happen, buddy.”
Others have pointed out that France voluntarily gifted the statue as a symbol of friendship and shared democratic values, and the notion of “returning” it contradicts its historical significance.
A Symbol Beyond Politics
While Glucksmann’s statement may reflect growing concerns about political shifts in the U.S., many argue that the Statue of Liberty transcends political disagreements. It continues to stand as a universal emblem of freedom, democracy, and hope, regardless of temporary political climates.
As of now, there is no serious diplomatic movement toward reclaiming the statue, making this demand more of a symbolic political statement than a realistic proposal.
