Louvre's Prioritization of Art Over Security Criticized Following Heist

Thu Nov 06 2025 18:43:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent French Court of Auditors report reveals significant neglect in security measures at the Louvre, pointing to an overemphasis on showcasing art rather than ensuring safety.

In the wake of a dramatic jewel heist, a French Court of Auditors report has criticized the Louvre Museum for prioritizing investments in new artifacts and exhibitions over essential security upgrades. The report highlighted a spending imbalance, showing that the museum allocated far less for security than for new artworks, leading to significant vulnerabilities. This has raised concerns among cultural figures and policymakers, highlighting the need for a reevaluation of funding priorities.

In a startling revelation following the recent high-profile jewel theft at the Louvre Museum, a French Court of Auditors report has drawn attention to the institution's longstanding neglect of security protocols. The report indicates that Louvre management prioritized investments in new artwork and exhibitions over necessary maintenance and security issues.

Three weeks post-heist, the museum has faced severe backlash for its apparent lack of foresight regarding security. The theft, which occurred on October 19, involved thieves using an angle-grinder to access display cases and steal jewels valued at approximately €88 million (£78 million) that belonged to 19th-Century royals.

The report covered the years from 2018 to 2024, revealing that the Louvre spent €105.4 million on acquiring new artworks and €63.5 million on exhibition spaces, while only allocating €26.7 million for maintenance works and €59.5 million for restoring the palace itself.

Let no-one be mistaken: the theft of the crown jewels is a resounding wake-up call, remarked Pierre Moscovici, president of the Court of Auditors. This sentiment was echoed by France's Culture Minister Rachida Dati, who accused museum officials of grossly underestimating the risks of a break-in.

The fallout from the heist raises doubts about the Louvre's ambitious New Renaissance project initiated earlier this year by President Emmanuel Macron and museum director Laurence des Cars, meant to broaden public access and enhance exhibitions. Analysts note that the high costs of the project—currently escalating beyond €1 billion—coupled with inadequate security investments may place the project in jeopardy.

In defense, the Louvre accepted the majority of the recommendations from the audit but contended that the report did not fully take into account the museum's security efforts. As the investigation continues into the heist, the Louvre's future strategies regarding the balance between art acquisition and security enhancements will be closely monitored by the public and officials alike.