The recent attack on the U.S. embassy in Libya and the closure of the Canadian Embassy in Tehran has highlighted the dangers of working as a diplomat.

Over the decades, Canadian Foreign Service officers have been taken as hostages, faced bombings, violent protests and some have even been killed.

Canada’s former Ambassador to the United Nations says diplomats may appear to live the high life in other countries, but he says there is hardship and there is a lot of danger involved in the work.

Paul Heinbecker, who is now a distinguished fellow at the Centre for International Governance and Innovation, tells 660News sometimes being a diplomat is much like being a soldier.

Heinbecker says those working in global hotspots often have to wear flak jackets and ride around in bullet proof vehicles when they leave the safety of their compound.

However he says their work is very important because they are the eyes, ears, and voice for the country and often have to step in to help out Canadian workers and travellers.

A review of security at Canada’s various embassies around the world is underway.