French President Macron Accepts Louvre Director's Resignation After Jewelry Theft

French President Emmanuel Macron has accepted the resignation of Louvre Museum director Laurence Des Cars following a jewelry theft valued at approximately $102 million and criticism over security lapses.

The French presidency confirmed that Des Cars submitted her resignation, which Macron approved on Tuesday night. In a statement, Macron described the decision as "a responsible step" amid needs for stability and renewed leadership at the world's largest museum.

The theft occurred in October, with the stolen items remaining unrecovered. It highlighted deficiencies in the museum's surveillance and protection systems. Additionally, staff strikes since December over wages and working conditions have caused repeated closures, adding to operational and reputational pressures.

The Louvre, founded in 1793, is the world's most visited museum and a key symbol of French cultural heritage, housing iconic masterpieces and drawing millions of tourists yearly.

Security issues at major European cultural institutions have grown in recent years, leading to demands for updated surveillance, digital artifact tracking and improved crisis response. The leadership change at the Louvre is anticipated to focus on security reforms, administrative restructuring and rebuilding public trust to protect this landmark.