, Nov. 25 -- General Shirley Botchwey on Tuesday said no woman is safe until all women are safe and that safety begins where fear ends -- in their homes, neighbourhoods, communities and countries.

"Violence against women is perhaps one of humanity's oldest and least punished crimes," she said in a statement issued marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

She said it is committed in every region and in every community, often behind closed doors and often without consequences. "It is personal - for all of us. If you have ever had to tell your sister to "be careful" just for existing, you understand."

Today is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and marks the beginning of...