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Museums

Louvre Director Admits Shortcomings in Museum's Surveillance System, Announces New Security Measures

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Louvre director Laurence des Cars has acknowledged shortcomings in the museum's surveillance system, following a high-profile jewelry theft last week. The incident exposed several "weak points" in the museum's security, prompting des Cars to submit her resignation, which was rejected by the culture minister. In response, des Cars has announced a series of new security measures, including strengthening perimeter protection and upgrading the surveillance system. The museum has reopened to visitors, and the French government has called for faster security upgrades.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Louvre's CCTV cameras were insufficient, and the museum's surveillance system was exposed as having "weak points" during the recent jewelry theft.
  • Louvre director Laurence des Cars took responsibility for the security failure and submitted her resignation, but it was rejected by the culture minister.
  • Des Cars announced new security measures, including strengthening perimeter protection with anti-vehicle barriers and expanding and upgrading the surveillance system.
  • The museum's existing €80 million/US$92.89 million security plan has been defended by des Cars, who dismissed a recent report of "constant delays" in its implementation.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron called for faster security upgrades at the Louvre during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
  • The museum reopened to visitors on Wednesday morning, three days after the high-profile theft of jewelry valued at an estimated 88 million euros (US$102 million).
  • Louvre director des Cars will work with the Ministry of the Interior to establish a police station inside the museum to enhance security.

Statistics:

  • €80 million/US$92.89 million: The amount allocated for the Louvre's existing security plan.
  • €88 million/US$102 million: The estimated value of the jewelry stolen from the Louvre.
  • 88 million euros (US$102 million): The estimated value of jewelry stolen from the Louvre.
  • 3: The number of days the Louvre was closed after the jewelry theft.

Sources:

  • State Council News
  • Xinhua
  • People's Republic of China
  • People's Republic of China in Russian

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