Although slavery is illegal, slave relationships continue to persist throughout Mali existing in every ethnic group in the country, although mainly in Tuareg communities.

The MNJ denied targeting civilians, and made counter claims that government militia had continued indiscriminate attacks on Tuareg communities in the north.

The CRA is claiming autonomy for the 750,000-strong Tuareg community, which makes up 10 percent of Niger's total population.

Slavery continues to exist in Mali in all ethnic groups of the country but particularly among the Tuareg communities.

Those who were not sold became assimilated into the Tuareg community.

Whatever the feelings of the broader Tuareg community in Niger, 2007 saw a complete break in relations between ex-combatants and the government.

The population remains largely Djerma with semi- nomadic Tuareg communities.

The most important Tuareg community were the Kel Owey who settled in the Aïr Mountain region.

Traditional chiefs, who had been major slave owners particularly in Tuareg communities, became prominent leaders of the country after independence.

The sedentary population is a largely low caste Tuareg community.