On Monday, workers at Paris’s world‑most‑visited Louvre Museum voted to strike, adding another setback to the institution after a high‑profile jewelry robbery last month.
Strike Vote Details
The CFDT union reported that the decision was reached during a meeting of 400 workers on Monday morning, and the strike was limited to that day.
Impact on Visitors
Because of the walkout, the museum did not open as scheduled, and a notice on its website simply read, ‘the museum is closed for the moment,’ turning away thousands of would‑be visitors.
Talks with Government
The vote came after last week’s discussions between labor unions and officials, including Culture Minister Rachida Dati, but the talks did not resolve all concerns about staffing and financing.
Employee Perspective
Alexis Fritche, the general secretary of the culture wing of the CFDT union, said, “Visiting the museum has become an obstacle course,” highlighting the frustration of employees.
The Daylight Heist
For many employees, the robbery that occurred in daylight earlier this year underscored long‑standing worries that crowding and thin staffing were compromising security and working conditions.
Heist Details
Thieves used a basket lift to reach the Louvre’s façade, forced a window, smashed display cases, and fled with pieces of the French crown jewels.
Senate Inquiry Findings
A Senate inquiry released last week noted that the thieves escaped with barely 30 seconds to spare, citing broken cameras, outdated equipment, understaffed control rooms and poor coordination that initially sent police to the wrong location.
Staffing and Security Concerns
These findings illustrate how inadequate staffing and aging security systems have left the museum vulnerable during its busiest periods.
Labor Leaders’ Reaction
Labor leaders maintained that the discussions with the government did not address all of their concerns, and the strike was a statement that working conditions remain unacceptable.
Significance for the Louvre
The strike, combined with the recent robbery, threatens the museum’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for millions of visitors each year.
Key Takeaways
- Workers voted to strike for the day, citing staffing and financing issues.
- The museum closed, turning away visitors and adding to its recent troubles.
- A Senate inquiry highlighted serious security failures that allowed a jewel heist.
Closing
With the Louvre’s future still uncertain, the strike underscores the urgent need for improved staffing, better financing, and modernized security measures to protect both the museum’s treasures and its visitors.
