Hungary revokes hundreds of diplomatic passports

The Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is conducting a large-scale review and revocation of diplomatic passports issued under the previous administration. Out of 1,322 previously issued documents, the ministry has moved to revoke 943. However, data indicates that as of the end of August, only 335 of these passports have been officially invalidated or returned, representing approximately one-third of the targeted documents.

The review follows findings that many passports were issued as gestures rather than for legitimate diplomatic or foreign policy interests. While some high-profile figures, such as György Matolcsy and Ádám Matolcsy, had previously returned their documents voluntarily, and Reformed Bishop Zoltán Balog has since surrendered his, others have not yet complied. Notably, Árpád Habony, a prominent figure in government communications, has been identified among those who have not yet returned his diplomatic passport.

Diplomatic passports provide benefits such as easier visa acquisition and expedited processing at borders, though they do not grant immunity from foreign criminal proceedings. The ministry has not yet clarified the potential consequences for individuals who fail to return the documents after the established deadline.