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Louvre Audit Faults Security Delays, Chronic Underinvestment as Jewel Heist Fallout Deepens

Auditors urge redirecting funds, including brand-licensing income from Louvre Abu Dhabi, to overdue safety upgrades.

Overview

  • The Cour des comptes published its final report Thursday confirming persistent delays in deploying security equipment and chronic underinvestment in maintenance from 2018 to 2024.
  • Auditors recommend prioritizing technical infrastructure and safety, put the Louvre Nouvelle Renaissance renovation around €1.15 billion, and propose using Louvre Abu Dhabi licensing revenues exceeding €300 million through 2032.
  • Culture Minister Rachida Dati has ordered external anti-ram and anti-intrusion barriers before year-end and launched a governance review that includes creating a new top-level security directorate.
  • Louvre leadership says it accepts most recommendations but argues the assessment overlooks actions already under way, with an emergency board meeting scheduled for Friday.
  • The criminal investigation into the 22 October theft is ongoing, four suspects are in custody, and the stolen royal and imperial jewels have not been recovered.