Governance Turmoil and Financial Measures at the Louvre Amid Internal Strife

The Louvre museum is currently facing significant governance challenges coupled with financial strategies to offset an ongoing crisis. On January 13, despite union protests that led to its closure the previous day, the museum held its annual New Year wishes event under the presidency of Laurence des Cars, who addressed staff in a notably calm atmosphere. However, unrest lingers as Culture Minister Rachida Dati publicly acknowledged a ‘governance problem’ at the institution and indicated that government action on leadership issues would be forthcoming, without providing specifics.

Furthermore, a new financial measure was introduced on January 14, imposing a 10 euro surcharge on visitors from outside the European Union. This policy aims to generate between 15 and 20 million euros to support the Louvre amid these turbulent times. The fee increase has not deterred foreign tourists, who appear accustomed to similar pricing in other countries, such as the United States.

These developments highlight a dual strategy at the Louvre to stabilize its internal management while addressing financial shortfalls. The combination of staff unrest, governance scrutiny, and innovative revenue measures reflects the museum’s complex challenges as it navigates this period of upheaval.