In pictures: Conflict in Darfur

The African Union has deployed a peacekeeping force of about 7,000 troops in Darfur, with the blessing of the Sudanese authorities. The Khartoum government has in the past opposed the deployment of non-African peacekeepers.

The UN Security Council has now begun the process which could lead to a UN peacekeeping force to take over.

However, Sudan says it is opposed to UN troops in Darfur.