France’s Louvre Museum initiated a security audit ten years ago, but the suggested enhancements are slated for completion only by 2032, as per a report from the state auditor released before a recent heist. The daring robbery, where thieves absconded with jewels valued at $143 million Cdn, has cast doubt on the museum’s reputation as a protector of its extensive collection. Authorities have acknowledged that the security measures were inadequate.
Although four suspects have been charged in connection with the theft, the stolen treasures are still missing. The report, disclosed by the national audit office known as the Cour des Comptes, revealed that only 39% of the museum’s rooms had surveillance cameras by 2024. A security review initiated in 2015 highlighted the museum’s lack of proper monitoring and crisis readiness, resulting in a call for security upgrades at the end of last year.
The report emphasized that the museum’s failure to update its infrastructure was compounded by excessive spending on art acquisitions, with only a fraction on display to the public. Additionally, post-pandemic revival projects, inefficiencies, and ticket fraud worsened the situation. The report criticized the lack of feasibility studies for the museum’s development plans announced this year, neglecting both technical and financial assessments and personnel requirements.
Describing the situation as a “chronic underinvestment” in security, the report recommended reducing art acquisitions, raising ticket prices, and enhancing digital infrastructure and governance at the Louvre. The auditor stressed the need for the museum to bolster its internal control function, which was deemed inadequate for an institution of its magnitude.
Pierre Moscovici, head of the audit office, stated that the recent theft underscored the urgency for security upgrades, emphasizing that the Louvre has the necessary funds to proceed without delay. Following the heist, the Louvre announced plans to implement additional security measures, including anti-intrusion devices and barriers against vehicle ramming on nearby roads by year-end.
In response to the audit, Culture Minister Rachida Dati expressed agreement on the critical technical work required and urged swift corrective actions. Louvre director Laurence des Cars supported most of the recommendations outlined in the report, emphasizing the importance of the museum’s long-term transformation to address its underlying challenges.