PARIS — The Louvre Museum has resumed full operations following a unanimous decision by staff to temporarily suspend strike action that had severely disrupted access to the world’s most visited cultural institution. The resolution emerged from a general assembly of museum employees who voted to pause their labor mobilization, enabling the iconic Paris museum to welcome visitors without restrictions.
The reopening concludes a period of significant disruption that saw complete closure earlier in the week and only partial accessibility on Wednesday. The decision to suspend strikes came after five negotiation sessions with French Culture Ministry officials, though union representatives emphasized that progress on key issues remains inadequate.
Critical concerns highlighted by workers include chronic understaffing, inadequate compensation structures, and insufficient long-term security planning. Additional grievances center on deteriorating infrastructure within the historic building complex and suboptimal working conditions for staff.
Union leadership expressed particular dissatisfaction with Louvre President Laurence des Cars’ response during the strike period, noting her absence from direct dialogue with staff throughout the labor action. The museum’s administration has yet to comprehensively address the systemic issues raised by employees.
The truce remains temporary, with workers scheduling another general assembly for January 5 to evaluate progress on their demands and determine whether to resume strike activities. The outcome of upcoming discussions with museum management and cultural ministry officials will likely determine the institution’s operational stability in the new year.