Slavery in the Darfur region of Sudan has worsened, credible sources told Anti-Slavery International during our recent visit in December.

In a disturbing development, fighting is continuing between Janjawid militias -- which are armed and supported by the Government -- and the Fur, Masaleet and Zaghawa tribes in the region. According to reports, the government-backed militias are abducting women and children from north and west Darfur and forcing them into slavery in region's south.

Previously, those enslaved in Darfur were abducted in Bahr El Ghazal and trafficked there; since 2002, there have been no cases of abductions reported in Bahr El Ghazal. This news is particularly worrying as it is taking place while peace talks between the Government and Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army is progressing.

It is vital the Government does not use these talks to distract it from its role in ending these raids and that it stops supporting militias responsible for abductions. The peace process provides a valuable opportunity to end slavery wherever it occurs in the country.

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