Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron has been named a United Nations Messenger of Peace with a special focus on ending violence to women.
Theron has been involved in charitable causes such as putting mobile health clinics in rural areas of her native South Africa where access to care is limited.
Celebrities chosen to be peace messengers are asked to promote UN activities and ideals through public appearances and media contacts.
When bestowing her with the honour, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, "You have used your voice, compassion and special relationship with the public to create a better world."
Among the other messengers of peace are actors George Clooney and Michael Douglas, musicians Daniel Barenboim and Midori Goto and author Paulo Coelho.
