Questioning museum security priorities amid repeated thefts

Despite previous high-profile thefts, French museums continue to experience security breaches, raising questions about whether the current approach is effective. This perspective argues that repeated incidents, including the Besançon heist, suggest a systemic failure that money alone cannot fix. Critics point to a lack of centralized coordination among museums, inconsistent training for staff, and an over-reliance on technology that can be bypassed. Instead of simply calling for more funding, this view urges a full review of security protocols, including risk assessments for high-value items. Some experts propose digitizing rare collections to reduce the incentive for theft, as physical artifacts would be harder to sell. Others question whether the focus on security detracts from the museums' educational mission. The Besançon theft shows that even after past warnings, vulnerabilities persist. Accountability is needed: who is responsible for the gaps? Without addressing root causes, another heist is likely.