American actress named goodwill ambassador for UN Women

Anne Hathaway, the Oscar-winning actress, was appointed on Wednesday a goodwill ambassador for UN Women, the world body's agency dedicated to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women.

The UN agency said that the American actress has been a long-standing supporter of women's and girls' rights.

Hathaway, 33, will put under the spotlight the unequal burden of work in the home as one of the key barriers to gender equality.

The head of UN Women, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, said: "The appointment of Anne is timely because this year UN Women is driving hard to foster more positive mindsets and practical arrangements around workplaces that build and support equality for women."

The senior UN official said Hathaway will be making the case that parental leave for mothers and fathers and childcare services are two important ways for employers "to demonstrate that they understand the value of their staff -- both male and female."

Hathaway, who won the Academy Award for best supporting actress in 2013 for her role in "Les Miserables," said in a statement that she feels "honored and inspired by this opportunity to aid in advancing gender equality."

"Significant progress has already been made but it is time that we collectively intensify our efforts and ensure that true equality is finally realized," she said. Enditem