Christophe Leribault has been appointed as the new director of the Musée du Louvre, taking over an institution reeling from a major security breach. The theft of the crown jewels in October exposed severe systemic failures, including neglected security upgrades and a management culture criticized as autocratic under his predecessor, Laurence des Cars. The museum has also been plagued by strikes, ticket fraud scandals, and damaging parliamentary reports.
Leribault's mission, described by President Emmanuel Macron as one of "appeasement," involves stabilizing a deeply troubled institution and restoring staff morale and public trust. His appointment coincides with a change in political oversight, as Catherine Pégard becomes the new culture minister. The success of his tenure hinges on addressing the Louvre's security vulnerabilities, financial mismanagement, and the divisive leadership style of the previous administration, all while maintaining the museum's global stature.