Hartwig Fischer, the director of the world-renowned British Museum, has tendered his resignation after acknowledging that the institution failed to adequately respond to warnings about stolen artifacts in 2021. This decision comes in the wake of recent revelations that items from the museum's collection were found to be missing, stolen, or damaged, prompting a police investigation.
The board of trustees of the British Museum has accepted Fischer's resignation, with former chancellor George Osborne, who serves as the chairman of trustees, stating that Fischer has acted honorably throughout his tenure. Osborne added that nobody has ever doubted Fischer's integrity, dedication to his job, or his love for the museum.
In a statement, German art historian Hartwig Fischer expressed regret for the museum's inadequate response to the warnings and the seriousness of the situation that has now arisen. He acknowledged that as the director, the responsibility for the failure ultimately rests with him. Fischer also admitted to misjudging remarks he made earlier about Dr. Gradel, an author, academic, and antiquities dealer who had alerted the museum to some of the stolen items.
Fischer further stated that he has offered his resignation to the chairman of the trustees and will step down once an interim leadership arrangement has been established. This interim leadership will remain in place until a new director is chosen. Despite his belief that the museum will emerge stronger from this ordeal, Fischer concluded that his presence is currently serving as a distraction, which is not what he desires. He expressed gratitude for having the privilege of working with dedicated public servants during his seven years as the director and called the British Museum an amazing institution.
In July, Fischer had previously announced his plan to step down from his position next year.