Louvre Museum Faces Decade-Long Security Overhaul After Critical Audit

The Louvre Museum in Paris will need until 2032 to fully address its critical security flaws. This finding comes from a report by France’s state auditor, the Cour des Comptes. The audit was completed just before a multi-million-dollar heist last month.

Officials have since admitted the museum’s security was inadequate. The report highlights years of under-investment as a primary cause for the outdated infrastructure.

Audit Reveals Alarming Security Gaps and Financial Mismanagement

The auditor’s report revealed that only 39% of the museum’s rooms had surveillance cameras as of 2024. A security audit was initiated back in 2015. Its recommendations, however, only led to a tender for security works at the end of 2023.

The museum’s financial practices were also criticized. The report cited excessive spending on artwork acquisitions and missed revenues from ticketing fraud. These financial inefficiencies contributed to the inability to modernize security systems promptly.

Long-Term Transformation Plan Meets Urgent Calls for Action

The auditor provided ten recommendations for improvement. These include a reduction in acquisitions, increased ticket prices, and a complete refurbishment of its digital infrastructure. The report urged the Louvre to strengthen its internal controls.

In written remarks, Louvre director Laurence des Cars supported most recommendations. She insisted the museum’s long-term development plan is essential. However, Culture Minister Rachida Dati agreed on the urgency for swift corrective measures.

The extensive Louvre security upgrades will now be a primary focus for the institution. This comes as the museum balances its global reputation with the pressing need for modernization. The planned overhaul aims to protect its priceless collections for future generations.

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When will the Louvre’s security upgrade be finished?

The Louvre Museum expects to complete its comprehensive security overhaul by 2032. The project involves extensive work on surveillance and access control systems. This timeline was confirmed by the museum to the state auditor.

What did the state audit find about Louvre security?

The audit found that only 39% of the museum’s rooms had security cameras. It also cited a lack of crisis preparedness and chronic under-investment. These findings were published in a report by the Cour des Comptes.

What prompted the security review at the Louvre?

The review was prompted by a security audit begun in 2015. The recent state auditor’s report, compiled before a major heist, reinforced the urgency. The theft itself acted as a “deafening” alarm for action.

What are the main recommendations for the Louvre?

Key recommendations include a drop in art acquisitions and an increase in ticket prices. The auditor also advised a full digital infrastructure refurbishment. Strengthening internal governance was also highlighted as critical.

How is the Louvre director responding to the audit?

Director Laurence des Cars has expressed support for most recommendations. She also emphasized the necessity of the museum’s long-term transformation plan. She believes it is vital for addressing structural challenges.