France’s National Audit Office released a report on security at the Louvre, excerpts of which were leaked to the media shortly after a cache of the museum’s crown jewels was stolen.
The report, called the Cour des Comptes, found that by 2024, only 39% of the museum’s rooms will be equipped with cameras. A safety audit begun in 2015 determined the museum was not prepared for emergencies and only put out a tender for system upgrades late last year.
“The project will take several years to complete and is not expected to be completed until 2032, according to the museum,” the report said. Reuters.
It added that the museum had funds to make improvements but was spending too much on acquiring art, only a quarter of which is on display to the public, and restarting post-pandemic programming. Investments in maintenance and security are “indispensable for the long-term functioning of the institution,” but the Louvre has always prioritized projects that are “visible and attractive.” The audit made 10 recommendations to support necessary investment, including reducing museum acquisitions, increasing ticket prices and updating digital infrastructure.
Former EU Economic Commissioner Pierre Moscovici said the Louvre “must now implement [security improvements] There is no doubt about it,” adding, “The theft of the Crown Jewels is certainly a deafening wake-up call: at this rate [of security upgrades] Not nearly enough. Authorities now realize they have heard those alarm bells. “
At a hearing before the French Senate, Louvre museum director Laurence Dekar said the alarm in the Apollo Gallery, which houses France’s national treasures, was operating normally and went off during the robbery. But she admitted the museum’s security system was “woefully inadequate” and “outdated”.
In January, the museum launched a long-term development project including a new dedicated space Mona Lisa, and updated security measures.
The Louvre expects to add stronger security measures to nearby public roads by the end of the year, including anti-intrusion devices and anti-vehicle ramming barriers.
Four suspects are currently in custody in connection with the robbery on Sunday, October 19.
