Actor Clooney appointed UN messenger of peace
Previously the star has spoken out against violence in Sudan's western region of Darfur
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Saturday, 19, Jan 2008 11:19
Hollywood actor George Clooney has been appointed a United Nations (UN) messenger of eace.
The world body selected Clooney to join seven other famous figures from around the world to help spread awareness of issues such as human rights, disarmament and inter-cultural dialogue.
Clooney, who has campaigned for an end to violence in Sudan's western region of Darfur, will be tasked with highlighting the organisation's work in the field of peacekeeping
Speaking about the appointment, UN secretary general Ban Ki-Moon said: "You have seen first-hand the pain experienced by the victims of war and made it your personal mission to help end violence and human suffering."
He also praised the Oceans Eleven star's efforts in raising awareness about Darfur.
On hearing of the designation, the actor said: "I am deeply honoured to receive this appointment. I look forward to working with the United Nations in order to build public support for its critically important work in some of the most difficult, dangerous and dire places in the world."
Previously, Clooney teamed up with fellow celebrities Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Don Cheadle to launch a campaign entitled Not On Our Watch in order to focus attention on ending mass atrocities in the world.
A spokesperson for the UN said he would officially begin his role after a ceremony at the organisation's headquarters on Jan 31st.