French Government Report Accuses MuCEM President of Sexual Harassment and Rigged Contracts

A report from the French government has charged Pierre-Olivier Costa, the suspended president of the Musée des civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée (MuCEM), with sexual and moral harassment, breaches of public procurement, and jeopardizing the institution. This report, presented by the Inspectorate General of Cultural Affairs (IGAC) in June, resulted in a four-month suspension for both Costa and director general Véronique Haché. The investigation uncovered multiple ethical breaches, such as favoritism and inappropriate conduct. In 2024, nearly 80 staff members signed an open letter criticizing the toxic work culture. Additionally, a former employee lodged a harassment complaint against Costa on August 8, 2025. Costa has refuted the allegations, and the report advised disciplinary actions against both individuals.