Contrary to official delegates, an honorary consul is not a diplomat by profession. They are ordinary citizens of a state who live and work abroad, and serve as their country’s representative at the local level where no other diplomats are available. This status is strictly voluntary, not compensated with any salary, and can be revoked at any time. Regardless of these drawbacks, people still enjoy being a “HonCon” due to the prestige, networking opportunities, and diplomatic privileges associated with the job.