The Louvre Museum in France initiated a security assessment ten years ago, but the necessary enhancements are projected to be finished by 2032, according to a report from the state auditor released before a recent heist. The theft, where four culprits stole jewels valued at $143 million Cdn, cast doubt on the museum’s reputation as a protector of its vast collection. Officials acknowledged shortcomings in the security measures.
Although four suspects have been charged in connection with the robbery, the stolen treasures have not been recovered yet. The report, disclosed by the national audit office known as the Cour des Comptes, highlighted that only 39% of the museum’s rooms had surveillance cameras by 2024. Furthermore, a security evaluation initiated in 2015 revealed inadequate monitoring and crisis preparedness, leading to a security works tender at the end of the previous year.
The report emphasized delays in infrastructure updates due to excessive spending on artwork acquisitions, inefficiencies, and ticket fraud. The museum’s post-pandemic initiatives lacked feasibility studies and staffing considerations. The report suggested ten recommendations, including reducing acquisitions, raising ticket prices, and upgrading digital systems and governance.
The auditor stressed the need for improved internal controls given the chronic underinvestment in information systems at the Louvre. Following the heist, the Louvre announced plans to enhance security with anti-intrusion devices and barriers on nearby roads by year-end. In response to the disarray at the museum, a development project was launched to enhance visitor safety and protect exhibits, including a new space for the iconic Mona Lisa painting. Culture Minister Rachida Dati supported urgent technical work, while Louvre director Laurence des Cars advocated for a comprehensive transformation plan to address structural challenges.