Ice Choltarn, MP of the People’s Party, was elected by 82 parliaments worldwide with the highest number of votes to become a member of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Parliamentary Human Rights Committee.
On 20 April 2026 GMT+7, Choltarn Sappaiboonlert, MP for Bangkok from the People’s Party, was elected by 82 parliaments worldwide as a member of the IPU Parliamentary Human Rights Committee, receiving the highest vote count among parliamentarians nominated globally.
Choltarn said he is pleased to announce his recent election as a member of the IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians, representing the Asia-Pacific region. Assuming this role at the 152nd IPU Assembly in Istanbul is a proud moment to serve in protecting fellow parliamentarians worldwide.
Over the past 15 years, his work in human rights law and refugee law has been driven by the belief that no one should be unjustly punished simply for standing up to protect others’ rights. This new assignment continues the ideals he has upheld throughout his career.
Choltarn explained the role of the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee: each year, hundreds of parliamentarians worldwide face threats, arbitrary detention, torture, or even life-threatening danger just for performing their duties. Established in 1976, this IPU committee is the sole international mechanism dedicated exclusively to investigating violations against parliamentarians and protecting representatives at risk. It works to provide protection, demand accountability, and foster solidarity among parliaments globally to support threatened members.
He added that when parliamentarians are targeted or silenced, the voices of the tens of thousands or more constituents they represent are also silenced. Protecting representatives means protecting the foundation of representative democracy. Parliaments can only effectively oversee power, promote peace, and advance sustainable development if members can speak truth freely without fear of punishment. Whether fighting for the people of Phra Khanong-Bang Na or standing with courageous representatives on the global stage, his commitment to justice remains unwavering.
