According to media reports ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ actor said, “I am a supporter of UN ‘HeForShe’ campaign and the role men and boys can play in stopping crime against women and girls, and working towards gender equality. Through this new partnership I want to call on all men and boys to be a catalyst for change and, through our actions create a value system to end gender disparity”.

Akhtar has represented the voice of numerous concerned men on the important issue of gender equality and violence against women and girls in India through his ‘Men against rape and discrimination’ (MARD) campaign.

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, UN Women executive director said in a statement, “We are pleased and honored to have Farhan as our Goodwill Ambassador for South Asia, for we believe his work and values represent the core values of UN Women. We need creative and committed men like Farhan to push the gender equality and women's empowerment agenda”, media reported.

Earlier this year, UN Women has appointed numerous celebrities including British actor Emma Watson, Academy Award winner Nicole Kidman and Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol of Thailand.