Emma Watson has become a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations (UN).

The 24-year-old actress has been offered the role in the international organisation's gender-equality arm to help promote women's empowerment.

She tweeted: ''So excited to start work with the AMAZING people at UN Women! (sic)''

The 'Harry Potter' actress - who has previously visited Bangladesh and Zambia to promote education for women - believes she has a lot to give to the position and is thrilled to be able to offer her ''knowledge, experience and awareness''.

In a statement, she said: ''Women's rights are something so inextricably linked with who I am, so deeply personal and rooted in my life that I can't imagine an opportunity more exciting.

''I still have so much to learn, but as I progress I hope to bring more of my individual knowledge, experience and awareness to this role.''

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women has expressed her appreciation at having Emma working alongside them.

She said: ''We are thrilled and honoured to work with Emma, whom we believe embodies the values of UN Women.

''The engagement of young people is critical for the advancement of gender equality in the 21st century, and I am convinced that Emma's intellect and passion will enable UN Women's messages to reach the hearts and minds of young people globally.''

Her first campaign in her new role is the UN Women's 'HeForShe' campaign which encourages men and boys to stand up against inequalities faced by women around the world.