Mumbai: The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India has appointed acclaimed actor, producer, and entrepreneur Kriti Sanon as its Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. The announcement was made at an event in Mumbai, reaffirming UNFPA’s commitment to advancing women’s empowerment, well-being, and safety across India.
In her new role, Sanon will advocate for the rights and choices of women and girls, focusing on key issues such as education, empowerment, gender-based violence, equal opportunities, and ending harmful practices like child marriage and son preference. Before the announcement, she joined four young gender equality changemakers in pledging to dismantle barriers to equality.
“I am deeply honored to join UNFPA India as their Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. This role provides an incredible platform to advocate for the rights and choices of women and girls, ensuring they have the freedom to make their own decisions, pursue their dreams, and live free from violence and discrimination. I am deeply passionate about empowering every woman and girl, helping amplify their voices, tell their stories, and inspire collective action towards a more equal and just society. I look forward to working closely with UNFPA India to make a tangible difference in their lives,” said Kriti Sanon.
Welcoming her to the role, Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Kriti Sanon as our Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. Her powerful voice, passion, and widespread influence will be instrumental in amplifying our message and reaching a broader audience, especially young people. Kriti’s dedication to advancing the rights, opportunities, and safety of women and girls aligns perfectly with UNFPA’s vision of an equal and just society. We are confident that her efforts will inspire meaningful change and accelerate progress towards ensuring that every woman and girl can live with dignity and fulfil her potential.”
Pio Smith, UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, added, “Kriti Sanon’s appointment as UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality is a powerful and significant milestone in our pursuit of the full and equal rights of all women and girls. Her influence extends far beyond India, and her voice will resonate across the Asia-Pacific region, where millions are striving for equal rights and opportunities. By championing their aspirations, Kriti will amplify the call for gender equality, inspire young people and help accelerate progress towards a future where every woman and girl can thrive.”
As part of her two-year engagement plan, Kriti Sanon will undertake field visits to UNFPA programme sites, participate in national and international advocacy events, contribute to awareness campaigns, and author opinion pieces aimed at advancing women’s empowerment.
For over five decades, UNFPA India has worked with the Government of India and civil society to promote gender equality, eliminate gender-based violence, and expand opportunities for women and girls. With Kriti Sanon joining as Honorary Ambassador, UNFPA aims to further accelerate progress towards a future where every woman and girl can live with dignity, make her own choices, and fulfil her potential.
