The popular Smurf characters have been brought on board by United Nations to encourage children, young people and adults to make the world happier, more peaceful, equitable and healthy, via a campaign.

The 'Small Smurfs Big Goals' campaign is designed to encourage everyone to learn about and support the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which were agreed on by all 193 member-countries of the United Nations in 2015, read an official statement.

It begins with the launch of a video inspiring viewers to champion the goals, which include ending extreme poverty, protecting the planet and giving everyone the chance to enjoy peace and prosperity.

Launched on Wednesday by the United Nations, Unicef, and the United Nations Foundation, public can also join Team Smurfs by visiting the Smurfs official website and contribute in different ways.

"The entertainment industry moves the hearts and minds of people of all ages, and the UN thanks our friends at Sony Pictures Animation and the Smurfs for this creative effort to mobilise support for the Sustainable Development Goals," said Maher Nasser, Director of the Outreach Division, United Nations Department of Public Information. 

"We hope this campaign will motivate millions of young people and their families to do their part to end poverty, reduce inequality, and protect our planet - three key aspects that will lead to the well-being and happiness of all people," Nasser added.

Team Smurfs will rally behind the goals through to the International Day of Happiness on March 20, when the campaign will culminate in a celebration at UN headquarters in New York to mark the occasion. 

This year, the International Day of Happiness will highlight the Sustainable Development Goals as building blocks of happiness. 

Voice actors from the upcoming animated movie "Smurfs: The Lost Village" will attend to honour youth and children, who have played a role in raising awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals. 

"We know that children and young people are some of the world's most passionate advocates on issues that matter to them the most. We must continue to find new ways to empower them to help achieve a world free from inequality and injustice for every child. This campaign will give children and young people the platform they need to have their voices heard," Paloma Escudero, Unicef Director of Communications, said.

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