French President Macron accepts the resignation of Louvre director Laurence des Cars
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 24, 2026
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French President Emmanuel Macron has accepted the resignation of Laurence des Cars, director of Paris's renowned Louvre museum, amid a series of challenges including a high-profile jewel heist, labor strikes, and reports of disrepair. The museum has faced significant criticism over its security vulnerabilities, highlighted by the theft of $102 million worth of jewels in October 2023, which remains unresolved. Additionally, ongoing labor disputes since December have led to frequent closures, while water leaks and a massive ticket fraud investigation further complicate the institution's woes.
The Louvre's financial priorities have come under scrutiny, with critics questioning its low spending on security and maintenance compared to its extravagant purchases of new artworks—only 25% of which are accessible to the public. These issues have overshadowed Macron's push for modernization and innovation at the museum, which he hopes will address current challenges and secure its future as a global cultural icon.
The museum's struggles extend beyond France, raising concerns about the broader management of cultural institutions worldwide. As Macron praised des Cars for her "act of responsibility," it remains to be seen how the Louvre will navigate its next chapter under new leadership, balancing security, modernization, and public access while addressing ongoing financial and operational issues. This situation underscores the importance of effective governance in preserving and promoting such iconic cultural heritage sites.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/24/2026