Overview
- The audit, published Thursday, concludes the museum favored high-visibility projects over essential upkeep and safety, citing considerable delays and chronic underinvestment from 2018 to 2024.
- The Cour des comptes now pegs the ‘Nouvelle Renaissance’ renovation at about €1.15 billion and urges a reset of investment governance and financing, including tapping brand-licensing revenue.
- Following an emergency board meeting Friday, the Louvre announced a security coordinator reporting to the presidency, a new steering committee, added cameras, anti-ram barriers, intensified patrols, a cybersecurity operations center, and closer police coordination.
- Unions welcomed clearer coordination but criticized the absence of new staffing, as the museum raised training budgets by 20% and said its long-planned security masterplan begins implementation now.
- Louvre chief Laurence des Cars said the institution accepts most recommendations though she disputes the report’s severity, while the October 19 jewel heist remains unsolved with four suspects jailed and the pieces still missing.