Bloom named UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador

NEW YORK, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- British actor Orlando Bloom has been named a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Children's Fund, the organization announced Monday.

Bloom, who has starred in "The Lord of the Rings" and "Pirates of the Caribbean" blockbusters, was appointed by UNICEF in recognition of his commitment to the rights of children worldwide.

"We are proud to have Orlando Bloom as one of the strong voices for vulnerable children," the agency's executive director, Ann M. Veneman, said in a statement.

The film star has already seen the work carried out by UNICEF during his visits to Nepal, Russia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

"UNICEF doesn't just deliver humanitarian aid, which is what they are known for all over the world. They also educate and provide tools which help women and children face challenges specific to their own lives," Bloom added. "I look forward to learning more and to supporting UNICEF any way I can."