The Louvre's Current Struggles and Future Renewal: A Guide for Tourists
Workers stage unruly strike, causinglockdown at The Louvre museum
The Louvre, the world's most visited museum, recently faced an unprecedented wild strike on June 16, 2025, due to staff protesting against unbearable working conditions and overcrowding issues.
Current Issues
The strike emphasized the demand for a resolution to chronic understaffing and the need to manage visitor crowds more efficiently [2]. The protesters voiced concerns that the museum's state was declining due to deteriorating infrastructure and outdated facilities.
Renovation Plans
In response, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a ten-year renovation plan, known as the "Louvre New Renaissance," aiming to restore the museum's former glory [3][5]. This extensive project will address the museum's infrastructure deficiencies, including water leaks and aging facilities. The renovations will also include a new entrance and a separate exhibition room for the Mona Lisa, making it accessible independently of the main museum [1][2]. The estimated cost of the project is between €700 million to €800 million ($810 million to $930 million), to be funded through ticket revenue, private donations, state funds, and licensing fees from the Louvre's Abu Dhabi branch [1][2].
The Impact on Tourists
For tourists planning a visit, the Louvre's renovation and current staff situations will have several consequences:
- Enhanced Visitor Experience: Once completed, the renovation is expected to improve the layout and flow inside the museum, making it easier to explore its vast collections [1].
- Crowd Management: Efforts to efficiently manage the large number of daily visitors (approximately 20,000) will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience [2].
- Potential Ticket Price Increase: Prepare for a ticket price hike for non-EU tourists as funds are diverted to cover the cost of the renovation [1].
- Continued Special Events: Despite the challenges, the Louvre remains a popular destination, with free nocturnes on the first Friday of every month [4].
In conclusion, while the present circumstances may momentarily disrupt tourist plans, the long-term renovations aim to boost both the working conditions of staff and the overall experience for visitors.
The Commission, in light of the Louvre's current struggles, has been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers, not only from the risks associated with unbearable working conditions, but also from potential health hazards related to exposure to ionizing radiation, such as those that might arise from extensive renovation projects. To promote workplace wellness and health-and-wellness, it is essential to consider the safety and welfare of the Louvre's staff during the museum's renovation, especially considering that their work often involves interaction with certain scientific aspects of the exhibits.
