Louvre Museum Shuts Indefinitely Following Unanimous Staff Strike Over Working Conditions and Funding Cuts

On December 15, 2025, employees of the Louvre Museum in Paris voted unanimously to strike, prompting an indefinite closure of the iconic institution. The strike stems from deteriorating working conditions, persistent understaffing, and concerns about security following a high-profile theft earlier in October. The unions CGT and CFDT confirmed the unanimous decision, with Christian Galani of the CGT highlighting the ongoing staffing shortages as a major cause of the dispute.

Ahead of the closure, discussions took place with the Ministry of Culture, including a meeting with Minister Rachida Dati, aimed at preventing the shutdown during the critical Christmas holiday season. A key issue is a proposed 5.7 million euro cut in the museum's public funding for 2026, which would reduce the state allocation from the 98.2 million euros granted in 2024. While CGT reported limited progress from talks, the CFDT described the negotiations as calm and constructive.

In addition to the labor unrest, the Louvre is undergoing a forced reorganization to address broader operational and security problems after the theft of eight Crown jewels on October 19, which remain missing. The museum's president, Laurence des Cars, is collaborating with senior official Philippe Jost on these comprehensive reforms, as the Ministry of Culture emphasizes that simple safety measures are insufficient to resolve the institution’s challenges.

This strike and indefinite closure significantly impact France’s cultural sector during a peak visitor season, marking a critical moment in the Louvre's recent history.