Marseille MUCEM President Pierre-Olivier Costa suspended amid harassment probe

Pierre-Olivier Costa, the president of Marseille's Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MUCEM), has been suspended from his position effective July 1.

The suspension comes as the Ministry of Culture investigates allegations of sexual and moral harassment against Costa, who previously served as chief of staff to Brigitte Macron. The investigation was initiated in March following a report to judicial authorities. Sources indicate the alleged victim of harassment is a museum employee.

An internal inspection by the General Inspectorate for Cultural Affairs (Igac) also began in March, looking into reports of "malaise" within the museum. Their report, submitted in early June, has contributed to the ministry's decision. The ministry stated the suspension, which Costa requested on a provisional basis, is intended to "restore a climate of trust and renew social dialogue within the institution."

Staff representatives have described a "toxic" atmosphere at the MUCEM, citing "numerous dysfunctions and unacceptable facts stemming solely from inappropriate actions by this management." They detailed these concerns in a letter to the minister on June 24. Costa, who took over leadership of the MUCEM in November 2022, had previously faced criticism regarding his management style, with some staff accusing him of undermining the museum's scientific project and employing "toxic" management tactics through external consultants.