The conflict in the region has been marked by large-scale human rights abuses, including, intimidation, rape, decapitation and murder. Within Liberia, two major rebel groups emerged in opposition to the regime of former president Charles Taylor. Both groups, Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy and the Movement for Democracy in Liberia, have histories of atrocities towards civilian populations and have relied on child soldiers, including girls. It is estimated that Liberia has some 27,000 to 38,000 combatants, including the Taylorites, up to 70% of whom are minors.