Laurence des Cars has resigned as president of the Louvre following a high-profile robbery, which has prompted calls for a renewed focus on security and modernization at the museum.
Laurence des Cars, the president of the Louvre Museum, has submitted her resignation to French President Emmanuel Macron, who has accepted it, viewing it as a responsible act under the circumstances. The museum, shaken by the dramatic robbery on October 19, is in need of a new direction as indicated by the Elysee Palace’s statement. This change comes at a crucial time for the Louvre, as it prepares for significant projects aimed at improving security and modernization efforts, collectively titled 'Louvre - New Renaissance'.
The robbery that occurred on October 19 raised serious concerns regarding the security measures in place at one of the world's largest and most famous museums. Emmanuel Macron, acknowledging the challenges the Louvre faces, expressed gratitude for des Cars' leadership over the years. He emphasized the necessity for the museum to regain stability and vigor to pursue its ambitious projects, reflecting the crucial role cultural institutions play in national heritage and global diplomacy.
Looking forward, Macron plans to leverage des Cars' expertise in art and culture by assigning her a new role related to the French G7 presidency, which will focus on collaboration among major museums from the participating countries. This step illustrates France's commitment to enhancing international cultural cooperation, especially during times of potential vulnerability for cultural institutions. The resignation and forthcoming initiatives suggest a shift in how the Louvre intends to respond to current threats while enhancing its overall mission.
