EU Delegation in Budapest Concerned About Espionage

A five-member delegation from the European Parliament's Committee on Civil Liberties arrived in Budapest for a three-day visit to assess the progress on the rule of law in Hungary. The lawmakers were given Faraday pouches to protect their digital devices from espionage and data theft. Although not everyone used the pouches, the gesture alone was a strong signal.

MEP Tineke Strik, member of the LIBE delegation (Photo: AFP)

Distrust is not just a technical issue, but one of political importance: the fear of possible espionage suggests that Hungary may no longer belong to the same circle of trust as other EU member states.

Uncommon for Other Countries

Two officials with knowledge of the EP's security policies, granted anonymity, said that the use of the pouches was not common for members' trips and travel. Although the European Commission issued a procurement call for such devices in 2018, in practice they are rarely used.

Security concerns are not exclusive to Hungary. The Financial Times recently reported that on certain missions to the United States, the European Commission provides officials with burner phones and basic laptops.

However, the Brussels body denied issuing official guidance on the use of disposable mobile devices. In the case of the Hungary visit, such equipment was not automatically issued—lawmakers did not receive burner phones or special computers, only the metal-lined pouches were offered.

Technical Precaution Wrapped in Political Distrust

An EP spokes person sought to dispel concerns, saying: “All the necessary assessments are in place to ensure the development of committee fact-finding missions while ensuring [the] Parliament’s duty of care for [elected] members and staff.” 

Lawmakers are periodically briefed on security and cybersecurity measures while on mission and supporting materials in this regard are also made available to MEPs, the statement said.

However, these security measures—even if formally routine—carry a political message. The suggestion of possible espionage, the use of special devices, and the issued warnings all inevitably point to a lack of trust.

Cover photo: MEP Tineke Strik, member of the LIBE delegation (Photo: AFP)