In a bold statement that has stirred debate in France, French politician Raphaël Glucksmann has suggested that the United States should return the Statue of Liberty, a gift from France that was unveiled in 1886. Glucksmann, a European Parliament member and co-president of a minor left-leaning political party, asserted that the US is no longer worthy of the iconic monument. His remarks, delivered this past weekend to supporters of his Public Place party, reflected growing unease in Europe regarding US President Donald Trump’s divisive policies.
Glucksmann passionately remarked, “Give us back the Statue of Liberty,” implying that many Americans now align with “the side of the tyrants.” He framed the statue’s return as a matter of pride, stating, “It was our gift to you. But apparently, you despise her.” His comments received applause from his audience, illustrating a rising tide of sentiment in certain political circles against US leadership.
The White House responded promptly, dismissing Glucksmann’s comments and emphasising France’s historical gratitude for US support during both World Wars. They insisted that the statue, maintained as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is firmly US property and therefore cannot be reclaimed.
Originally intended to symbolize French-American friendship on the centenary of the American Declaration of Independence, the statue’s conception was delayed due to the Franco-Prussian War. The gift involved France financing the statue while the US was responsible for the pedestal.
Despite Glucksmann’s provocative stance, it is unlikely that France’s government, led by President Emmanuel Macron, would endorse such a move. Macron has been careful to manage relations with Trump, balancing criticisms against US policies while maintaining diplomatic ties.
In his address, Glucksmann also referenced the words of American poet Emma Lazarus, which championed the statue as a beacon for the oppressed and hopeful. He expressed sorrow that “this land is ceasing to be what it was,” underscoring his disillusionment with current US values.
In a recent briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt firmly rejected the idea of parting with the statue, urging France to remember the crucial role the US played in liberating them from Nazi occupation. While the US has much to thank France for in its own history, including support during the American Revolution, Leavitt’s comments reflect a prevailing narrative that elevates American contributions above those of its allies.
Overall, while Glucksmann’s call may be viewed as a political stunt, it has provoked conversations about the evolving relationship between the two nations and the symbolism of the Statue of Liberty in contemporary dialogue regarding freedom and democracy.