France's state auditor released a report on Thursday revealing serious security lapses at the Louvre, the world's most visited museum. The report, prepared before last month's robbery in which $102 million worth of jewels were stolen, warns that a security audit began in 2015 but will not complete recommended improvements until 2032.

As of 2024, only 39 percent of the Louvre's rooms had video surveillance. The report also criticizes inefficient spending, poor digital infrastructure and ticketing fraud.

The Cour des Comptes, the national audit office, called on the museum to limit art purchases, raise ticket prices and modernise management.

Chief auditor Pierre Moscovici described the robbery as a "deafening alarm" confirming neglected risks. The Louvre has promised to introduce additional security measures, including barriers and anti-burglary devices.

Both Culture Minister Rachida Dati and Louvre director Laurence des Cars acknowledged the need for urgent upgrades and the need for a transformation plan.

(reuters, max)