Louvre workers closed the Paris museum on Monday after launching a strike over working conditions, staffing levels, and security concerns. The walkout forced the world’s most visited museum to shut its doors, delivering another blow just months after a high-profile jewellery heist embarrassed the institution.
The CFDT union said around 400 employees attended a morning meeting and voted unanimously to strike for the day. Union leaders said it remains unclear whether the stoppage will last longer than Monday. Striking workers gathered outside the museum, blocking the glass pyramid entrance with flags, banners, and placards.
The Louvre confirmed the closure on its website, describing it as “exceptional” and promising refunds for ticket holders. The museum normally closes on Tuesdays, and staff may meet again on Wednesday to decide whether to return to work or extend the action.
Visitors caught off guard by sudden closure
Tourists arriving at the museum expressed disappointment and confusion. Lindsey Hall, who travelled from Sacramento, California, said she had looked forward to the visit for months. She described the Louvre as a once-in-a-lifetime experience and said she felt heartbroken missing the chance to explore its vast collection.
At the same time, Hall said she understood the workers’ position. She acknowledged how exhausting it must feel to manage massive crowds day after day while resources remain stretched. Her comments echoed a broader sense of sympathy from visitors caught in the disruption.
Security fears and staff shortages drive unrest
Unions said recent talks with government officials, including Culture Minister Rachida Dati, failed to address their concerns. Labour leaders said the museum struggles with understaffing, inadequate funding, and growing safety risks as visitor numbers continue to rise.
CFDT culture union secretary Alexis Fritche said visiting the Louvre now feels like navigating an obstacle course. Workers said the October jewel heist brought long-standing fears into sharp focus, highlighting how thin staffing and outdated security systems leave both employees and artworks vulnerable.
Police later arrested four suspects accused of stealing €88 million worth of jewels. Investigators said the group used a lift to reach the façade, forced a window open, smashed display cases, and escaped within seconds. A Senate inquiry blamed broken cameras, obsolete equipment, understaffed control rooms, and poor coordination that initially sent police to the wrong location.
Unions called for more security staff, improved working conditions, stable long-term funding, and leadership that listens to employees. CGT union official Yvan Navarro said staff numbers have continued to fall while visitor numbers and ticket prices rise. He said wages and staffing have failed to keep pace, pushing workers to a breaking point.
The Culture Ministry announced it had appointed Philippe Jost, who led the reconstruction of Notre Dame after the 2019 fire, to propose a major reorganisation of the Louvre. Jost will present recommendations by the end of February and work with Louvre director Laurence des Cars, who previously described the heist as a “terrible failure.”
