Louvre Temporarily Closes as Staff Protest Against Overtourism
Visitors were left outside, unaware of the sudden strike.
Summary
- The Louvre closed on June 16 due to staff protests over overtourism and understaffing
- Staff are seeking immediate help, stating the current working conditions are “untenable”
- The protest occurred despite Macron’s recent decade-long plan to address museum issues
The Louvre failed to open its doors on the morning of June 16 as staff protested the global overtourism.
CNN reports that the strike abruptly took place during a routine meeting. Gallery attendants, ticket agents and security refused to work in protest over uncontrollable crowds, understaffing and what was referred to by a union as an “untenable” working environment. No additional details were revealed.
As per USA Today, the meeting began at 10:30 a.m. Paris time and went on until the early afternoon. The museum eventually opened its doors at around 2:30 p.m. the same day.
Visitors who stood outside this morning were unaware of the Louvre’s sudden closure. “It’s the Mona Lisa moan out here,” 62-year-old Milwaukee visitor Kevin Ward said. “Thousands of people waiting, no communication, no explanation. I guess even she needs a day off.”
Earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a decade-long plan for a Louvre “renaissance” that will tackle issues such as leaking water, hazardous temperature swings, outworn infrastructure and the entry of visitors that far exceeds its capacity. Staff, however, are asking for immediate help. “We can’t wait six years for help,” said Sarah Sefian of the CGT-Culture union. “Our teams are under pressure now. It’s not just about the art — it’s about the people protecting it.”
