Feb 24 โ€ข 20:32 UTC ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australia ABC News AU

Louvre director resigns amid theft and fraud crises

Louvre Museum director Laurence des Cars has resigned due to ongoing crises including a significant theft, water damage, and staff strikes.

Laurence des Cars, the director of the Louvre Museum, has resigned as the institution grapples with a series of crises, following the high-profile theft of crown jewels that took place in October. The heist has raised critical questions about security and management at the renowned museum, leading to increased scrutiny and calls for accountability within France's cultural sector. The resignation comes at a time when there has been no significant action taken against high-ranking officials despite the museum experiencing serious challenges.

In addition to the theft, the Louvre has been struggling with issues such as water damage that affected valuable works, escalating staff discontent resulting in numerous strikes, and ongoing complaints regarding overcrowding. Reports have also surfaced about a suspected long-running ticket fraud scheme that could have led to financial losses amounting to millions of euros. These combined incidents have painted a picture of an institution under severe strain and mismanagement in the face of its global reputation.

President Emmanuel Macron accepted des Cars's resignation, framing it as a responsible decision amid growing pressures. This development signals a potential shift in leadership aimed at restoring confidence in the museum's administration. The Louvre, as the worldโ€™s largest and most famous museum, now enters a new phase where serious reforms and an overhaul of operational practices seem essential to mitigate the crises faced and to regain public trust.

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