The National Audiovisual Centre (CNA) in Dudelange has faced mounting scrutiny in recent weeks.
Following recent allegations of bullying, poor management, and the premature closure of an exhibition, a new parliamentary question from MPs of the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) Stéphanie Weydert and Jean-Paul Schaaf to Culture Minister Eric Thill of the Democratic Party (DP) has reignited debate. This time, the focus is on The Family of Man, Edward Steichen’s world-famous photography exhibition, on display in Clervaux since 1994 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2003.
The parliamentary question refers to what it describes as a “continuous deterioration” in the conditions surrounding the exhibition, for which the CNA is responsible. Instead of permanent staff, reception duties are reportedly handled by external security personnel, which critics claim affects visitor support.
CNA director Gilles Zeimet said he is surprised by these claims. He explained that reception staff in Clervaux have not been directly employed by the CNA for several years, meaning there has been no recent change in that respect. On the contrary, he added that the permanent team in Clervaux has actually been strengthened.
According to Zeimet, a second permanent staff member has been based in Clervaux since last year. The parliamentary question also raises concerns about air-conditioning problems during the summer of the previous year, which were reportedly only resolved in winter.
Zeimet confirmed there was an issue with one of the two air-conditioning compressors, but stressed that the system continued to operate at all times. Climate conditions were consistently maintained, he said, and the photographs were never at risk. He made clear that a dehumidifier was additionally installed to support the required environmental standards.
Only last week, Culture Minister Eric Thill and Gilles Zeimet appeared before the parliamentary culture committee after press reports in early February alleged mismanagement and bullying within the CNA.
Zeimet, who has been director since autumn 2023, firmly rejects the bullying accusations. He stated that it is his responsibility to address situations that are not functioning properly and to find solutions, but insisted this is always done respectfully. He added that he does not tolerate any form of bullying.
He also noted that several decisions currently under criticism, such as the introduction of a new organisational structure, were taken before he assumed office. During periods of modernisation, he argued, it is normal for some employees to reconsider their professional paths, adding that this has indeed happened.
Former and current CNA employees present a different picture. According to one staff member who spoke anonymously to RTL, some departures were not voluntary but the result of pressure. The source suggested that responsibility lies not only with the director but also with the human resources management.
Culture Minister Thill confirmed last week during the meeting with the culture committee that two individuals are currently under a formal protection procedure in connection with the bullying allegations. Since Zeimet took office, four people in managerial positions have resigned. An internal staff satisfaction survey conducted last year also reportedly highlighted shortcomings in management.
Zeimet said he has drawn lessons from the findings. He acknowledged that further efforts are needed to listen more closely, improve communication, and continue implementing changes. He remained convinced that adjustments are necessary, but emphasised the importance of constructive dialogue rather than escalation.
In light of the situation, the Ministry of Culture has commissioned an analysis of psychosocial risks at the CNA by the State Centre for Human Resources and Organisation Management (CGPO). In addition, an advisory committee will be reintroduced to support the institution until the end of the year, a structure that also existed under Zeimet’s predecessor, Paul Lesch.
The audit and personnel matters will be discussed behind closed doors in the relevant parliamentary committee on 11 March.
