The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, a symbol of Brazil and a central part of its identity, is at the heart of an intense debate about its future management. Representing not only Rio de Janeiro but the entire country, the statue has become a major tourist attraction and a symbol of Brazilian pride.
In October, a bill was introduced proposing the transfer of management of the land where the statue stands from federal oversight to the Catholic Church. “We cannot accept that Christ the Redeemer, Brazil’s most recognisable international icon, remains in a state of neglect,” said Senator Carlos Portinho, the bill’s author, when presenting it in the senate chambers. “The church has historically cared for the statue and is best positioned to manage it effectively.”
Supporters of the bill argue that the Church is better suited to address infrastructure and accessibility issues, while critics believe such a move would breach the principle of a secular state and the country's environmental commitments. However, the Church and its allies contend that more should be done to capitalise on the monument’s fame. “If a Brazilian brand wants to adopt our bathroom and renovate it and put their name all over it, why shouldn’t they be able to do it?” asked Claudine Milione Dutra, legal coordinator for the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro.
Dutra also points out that federal bureaucracy is hindering efforts to resolve ongoing issues, such as malfunctioning escalators, bathrooms, and water fountains, which have been out of order for extended periods.
The Christ the Redeemer statue is located within the Tijuca National Park, a vast 3,953-hectare area of Atlantic Forest, known for its biodiversity. Despite being a key tourist destination, managing the balance between tourism and conservation remains a significant challenge, particularly in high-traffic areas like Corcovado.