The Harry Potter star says she's humbled by the role which, she adds, will give her the chance to "make a real difference".

She confirmed the news on Twitter, writing: "So excited to start work with the AMAZING people at UN Women!"

So excited to start work with the AMAZING people at UN Women! 😊 xx @UN_Women @phumzileunwomen @e_nyamayaro

— Emma Watson (@EmWatson) July 7, 2014

News of her new role, which was announced on the UN Women website, crashed the website and they had to apologise for the inconvenience through their Twitter account.

In a statement Watson 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," she said.

"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."

The actress will reportedly work for UN Women's HeForShe campaign which calls for men and boys to stand up against inequalities faced by women and girls around the world.