PARIS, FRANCE – Workers at the Louvre Museum voted Monday to strike, citing ongoing concerns about working conditions, staffing shortages, and inadequate resources, delivering another setback to the Paris landmark just months after a high-profile jewelry heist. The union representing the employees said 400 staff members participated in a vote Monday morning and decided to strike for the day.
The museum remained closed, turning away visitors who had planned to see its vast art and artifact collections, including the Mona Lisa. One disappointed visitor from California described her anticipation to explore the museum as “one of those life experiences you crave,” while acknowledging the challenges faced by staff managing the massive daily crowds. The strike comes after recent discussions between unions and government officials, which employees say did not fully address issues such as staffing levels and funding. Staff unions highlighted concerns over security and visitor management, pointing to the October jewel heist as a dramatic example of risks associated with insufficient personnel and outdated systems. Union leaders are calling for increased staffing, improved working conditions, stable long-term budgets, and leadership that actively responds to employee concerns, noting that rising visitor numbers have not been matched by corresponding increases in staff or pay.