Guardian journalist Michael Safi has spent six months investigating the creators of ClothOff, an AI company responsible for creating deepfake pornography. Deepfakes are creating global chaos, with law enforcement and legislators struggling to address the issue. Safi's investigation raises concerns about AI's potential to blur the lines between reality and fiction.

In Guatemala, the Maya people are experiencing a cultural and spiritual revival, led by activists like Rosario Tuyuc. Despite centuries of oppression, their traditions and knowledge, particularly in sustainable agriculture, are gaining recognition. The movement is bolstered by political figures like Thelma Cabrera and recent legal victories. The article highlights the ongoing struggle for indigenous rights and the significant role of the Maya in shaping Guatemala's future.

Ningxia, a region near the Gobi Desert in China, has transformed from a barren landscape into a burgeoning wine-producing area. The local wine industry, driven by ambitious winemakers like Ren Yanling and supported by the Ningxia Provincial Government, has grown significantly, with over 200 wineries now operating. International companies such as Pernod Ricard, Changyu, and LVMH are investing in the region. Despite challenges like high costs and harsh weather, Ningxia's wines are gaining recognition for their quality. The region's unique terroir and favorable conditions contribute to its success, with red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon being particularly popular.

Isabel Maria Gil Pérez recounts the abduction of her newborn son Raul from a Spanish hospital in 1978, a case that was part of a broader network of baby thefts involving medical, religious, and administrative officials in Spain until 1987. Despite exhuming Raul's supposed remains and finding no DNA match, Ms. Pérez's case was shelved due to lack of evidence. Over 2,000 similar complaints have been filed, but no convictions have been made. The United Nations and European Union have urged Spain to investigate, but efforts remain minimal.

The article explores the challenges faced by Mongolian herders due to climate change and overgrazing, which threaten the cashmere industry. It highlights the economic dependence of many families on cashmere production and the environmental degradation caused by the increasing number of livestock. The narrative follows the lives of herders like Ganbaatar Davaasuren and Tserennadmid Khaltarkhuu, illustrating their resilience and the cultural significance of their nomadic lifestyle. Experts and organizations emphasize the need for sustainable practices and government interventions to mitigate the impact of climate change and preserve the traditional way of life.

Forty percent of the world's cashmere comes from Mongolia, where the fabric is made from the undercoats of local goats. Climate change and overproduction have threatened the cashmere supply and the nomadic way of life. Temperatures in Mongolia have risen more than 2°C in the past 80 years, leading to milder winters and degraded pastures. The number of goats has increased dramatically, causing overgrazing and desertification. Local herders are reviving traditional pastureland management practices, and cooperatives and government measures are being implemented to address the issue. However, no alternative source of income has yet been found to replace cashmere.

Barcelona is undergoing a transformation to reclaim its identity from the impacts of mass tourism, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Local initiatives include outdoor yoga sessions, a moratorium on new hotel licenses, and the conversion of a large building into a tech hub. The city aims to diversify its economy and promote sustainable tourism, learning from examples like Miami's shift to cultural tourism. The pandemic has highlighted the need for a balanced approach that benefits both locals and visitors, with a focus on quality over quantity in tourism.

Energetic and hardworking women are at the forefront of China's winemaking revolution, particularly in Ningxia, transforming it into a significant wine-producing region. Ren Yanling, Zhou Shuzhen, Zhang Jing, and Gao Yuan are among the key figures driving this change, with their dedication and expertise attracting international attention from brands like Pernod Ricard and LVMH. Despite challenges such as harsh weather and high production costs, Ningxia's wines are gaining recognition for their quality. The region's success is attributed to the vision and commitment of these women, who continue to innovate and improve their craft.

Oases in Morocco are facing severe threats from climate change, with rising temperatures and human activities leading to drought and desertification. The number of palm trees has drastically decreased, and many oases are shrinking or disappearing. M'hamid el Ghizlane has seen significant degradation, while Skoura remains resilient due to its proximity to the Atlas Mountains. Local activists and agronomists are working to preserve these ecosystems through sustainable practices and raising awareness. The loss of oases would not only impact the environment but also erase a rich cultural heritage.

The article explores the severe impact of climate change on the oases in Morocco, focusing on the personal stories of local inhabitants like Mohamed Laaziz and Halim Sbai. It highlights the drastic reduction in water availability and the subsequent desertification that has led to the decline of these once-thriving ecosystems. The Moroccan government's efforts to mitigate the situation through agricultural programs and sustainable practices are discussed, though challenges remain. The narrative underscores the cultural and ecological significance of oases and the urgent need for sustainable solutions to preserve them.

Sikkim, India, is the world's first fully organic state, banning chemical inputs in agriculture since 2016 to preserve its environment and biodiversity. Tenzing Lepcha, a farmer and environmental activist, has been instrumental in promoting organic farming among the youth. The organic revolution has increased biodiversity and attracted investors, though profitability remains a challenge. The state's tourism industry has benefited, offering visitors authentic rural experiences. Azing Lepcha's farm exemplifies the challenges and rewards of the transition, successfully integrating organic farming with eco-tourism.

Caroline Koriche, after being laid off from her job in Barcelona, seized the opportunity to change her life and started a fashion business in La Pobleta de Bellveí. Her Atelier de couture Serraspina, inspired by the 18th century, has gained international acclaim. Caroline's journey from a corporate employee to a successful entrepreneur in the fashion industry highlights her resilience and vision.

The article highlights the severe impact of climate change on the oases in southern Morocco, particularly in the Drâa Valley. It discusses the prolonged droughts and desertification that have drastically reduced the number of palm trees and the overall agricultural productivity. The Moroccan government's initiatives to save the oases, including planting trees and restoring irrigation systems, are examined, along with the challenges posed by water-intensive crops like watermelons. Local figures like Mohamed Laaziz, Halim Sbai, and Abdelkarim Bouarif are featured, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and cultural preservation to combat the environmental crisis.

The discovery of Almería by foreign Western film productions in the 1960s transformed one of Spain's poorest provinces into a significant film industry hub. The region's low production costs and skilled horsemen made it an ideal location for Westerns, leading to the construction of film sets and infrastructure development. Despite a decline in the genre's popularity in the late 1970s, Almería's film industry saw a resurgence with major productions in the 1980s. Western films have had a lasting cultural impact on the province, symbolizing values of pride, courage, and freedom.

Morocco's oases, once vibrant ecosystems, are facing existential threats from climate change and human activities. Rising temperatures and desertification have severely impacted these unique environments and the livelihoods of their inhabitants. In the Draa River Valley, towns like Tamegroute and M'Hamid al-Ghizlane have seen their oases shrink and their palm populations decline. Traditional agricultural systems and water management techniques are being undermined, and the Moroccan government has launched a program to address these challenges. Despite the grim situation, some oases like Fint and Skoura still thrive due to their water sources. Local efforts to preserve the oases' rich culture and knowledge are ongoing, with initiatives to promote sustainable tourism and agriculture.

Rafa Molina, a former actor and stuntman, reflects on his journey from dreaming of film sets to owning Fort Bravo, one of the most famous western film sets in the world. Located in the Tabernas Desert in Almeria, Spain, Fort Bravo has been a backdrop for over 170 westerns, including classics like 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' and 'Once Upon a Time in the West.'

The article explores the rich history and enduring legacy of western film sets in the Spanish desert of Almería, focusing on Fort Bravo and its owner Rafael Molina. It highlights the region's transformation into a major film production hub, the influence of spaghetti westerns, and the personal stories of local stuntmen and actors. The narrative underscores the cultural and economic impact of the film industry on Almería, while celebrating the timeless appeal of western movies.

The article explores the enduring legacy of Western movies in the Almería province of southern Spain, focusing on the iconic film sets like Fort Bravo and the local community of cowboy actors and stuntmen. It highlights the region's transformation into a popular filming location for Westerns and other genres, driven by its diverse landscapes and low production costs. The narrative also delves into the cultural impact of spaghetti Westerns, the economic benefits for locals, and the ongoing attraction for tourists and filmmakers. Key figures like Rafael Molina and Ricardo Cruz Fernández are featured, along with notable films shot in the area.

The desert of Almeria in Andalusia, Spain, has served as a prominent backdrop for Western films, with over 170 Westerns shot in the region. Rafael Molina, a former actor and stuntman, owns Fort Bravo, one of the most famous Western film sets. The area has hosted iconic films like 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' and 'Once Upon a Time in The West.' Despite the decline of the Spaghetti Western genre in the late 1970s, Almeria remains a popular filming location, attracting tourists and film enthusiasts. The region's transformation from a poor, isolated area to a European Hollywood is highlighted, along with the enduring appeal of Western films.

Father Columba Stewart, a Benedictine monk, is dedicated to preserving ancient manuscripts by digitizing them through the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library (HMML). Since 2003, HMML has preserved around 50,000 Christian and Muslim manuscripts from the Middle East and Africa, protecting them from war, looting, and natural disasters. Stewart's work involves extensive travel, building trust with manuscript holders, and training locals to photograph centuries-old texts. HMML's efforts have expanded to include Islamic materials, and despite challenges such as COVID-19, Stewart continues to pursue digitization projects, hoping to foster better understanding between religious communities.

Barcelona residents are reclaiming their city as the pandemic reduces mass tourism, revealing the industry's weaknesses. The city administration is pivoting towards sustainable tourism and diversifying the economy, with initiatives like converting a large building into a tech hub and imposing a moratorium on new hotel licenses. The pandemic has prompted a shift towards proximity tourism and sustainability, with local authorities and residents seeing it as an opportunity to reflect on and reform the city's dependence on volatile tourism. The article highlights the challenges and potential for a more balanced and sustainable future for Barcelona's tourism sector.

Sikkim, a Himalayan state in India, has become the first state in the world to achieve fully sustainable agricultural production, eliminating chemical fertilizers and pesticides since 2003. This shift has led to increased biodiversity and soil rejuvenation, while also boosting tourism. Key figures like Tenzing Lepcha and Azing Lepcha have played significant roles in promoting and exemplifying the benefits of biodynamic agriculture. The state's model emphasizes the interconnection between humans and nature, offering a potential alternative to intensive farming practices.

Freediver Johanna Nordblad, along with her sister Elina, spends her time in a remote lodge in Finland, where she practices freediving under ice. After a severe leg injury in 2010, she turned to cold-water therapy, which led her to set a world record in ice freediving. Despite her fear of depths, she continues to push her limits and aims to break the men's ice freediving world record. Her journey reflects a shift from competitive ambition to personal fulfillment and connection with nature.

Sikkim, the world's first fully organic state, has successfully transitioned to organic farming, eliminating chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This model, though not scalable to feed the planet, offers a sustainable blueprint for balancing human and environmental needs. The state has seen increased wildlife, improved soil health, and a boost in tourism. Key figures like Tenzing and Azing Lepcha exemplify the benefits and challenges of this organic revolution. Despite infrastructure limitations, Sikkim's organic produce is gaining interest from international investors, and the local government is optimistic about future growth, especially in tourism post-pandemic.

Tashkent, once the heart of one of the world's most secretive states under President Islam Karimov, is undergoing significant changes under his successor, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Mirziyoyev has implemented reforms, freeing dissidents, improving foreign relations, and boosting foreign investment. Cultural and economic developments, such as the construction of Ice City, reflect the country's new direction. Despite lingering issues, such as past oppressive actions by the National Security Service, there is a sense of progress and national pride, particularly in the realm of chess, where Uzbekistan is emerging as a superpower.

Ilkhom Theatre Company in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, founded by Mark Weil in 1976, has been a bastion of cultural resistance and artistic freedom through Soviet rule and the dictatorship of Islam Karimov. Despite challenges, including Weil's murder in 2007, the theater continues to thrive under the leadership of Boris Gafurov. The theater's unique approach to creating plays and its resilience in the face of political and economic pressures highlight its significance. Recent reforms under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev have brought some positive changes, but the theater faces new threats from urban development and unrestrained capitalism.

The Ningxia region in China has transformed from a desert into a burgeoning wine-producing area, thanks to the efforts of dedicated viticulturists and government support. The region now boasts 199 vineyards over 40,000 hectares, producing high-quality wines that have won international awards. Despite initial challenges and high production costs, Ningxia's wine industry is rapidly growing, attracting major players like Pernod Ricard and LVMH. The region's unique terroir and climate conditions make it ideal for wine production, with a focus on red wines, particularly cabernet-sauvignon. Visionaries like Ren Yanling, Zhou Shuzhen, and Chen Deqi are leading this wine revolution, aiming to make Ningxia a global wine powerhouse.

Father Columba Stewart, a Benedictine monk, is dedicated to preserving ancient manuscripts from regions affected by conflict, such as Iraq and Syria. As the director of the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library, he has led efforts to digitally archive over 50,000 manuscripts, including Christian and Islamic texts, to protect them from destruction by radical groups like ISIS. His work aims to foster understanding between Christians and Muslims and ensure the survival of cultural heritage. Despite challenges, Stewart's efforts have been crucial in saving invaluable historical documents.

Abdelaziz Bouyadnaine, a 59-year-old Moroccan actor known for his striking resemblance to Osama Bin Laden, has appeared in over 100 films, series, and documentaries. Living in Ouarzazate, a city renowned for its film industry, Bouyadnaine and other local extras have contributed significantly to numerous international productions. Despite their dedication, many extras face financial instability and lack recognition. The city's film industry, supported by lower production costs and skilled local technicians, continues to thrive, although advancements in digital effects pose new challenges. Key figures like Martin Scorsese and Ridley Scott have played pivotal roles in promoting Ouarzazate as a prime filming location.

Ouarzazate, Morocco, known for its picturesque kasbah, silent sands, and snow-capped mountains, has been a popular filming location for Hollywood movies and TV series. Local extras, skilled in various roles, work long hours for low pay and often retire with no pension. The town's economy is heavily dependent on cinema, and despite the challenges posed by digital effects reducing the need for physical sets and extras, recent productions have brought a resurgence in activity. Local artisans create props and sets, and the industry's future looks promising with new projects on the horizon.

Father Columba Stewart, a Benedictine monk, leads efforts to preserve Christian and Islamic manuscripts threatened by wars, theft, and the Islamic State. Through the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library (HMML), Stewart has trained local teams to digitize manuscripts, ensuring their preservation. Despite challenges, including skepticism from war-torn communities and the physical deterioration of manuscripts, HMML has successfully digitized over 140,000 manuscripts. Stewart's work spans regions from the Middle East to India and Ethiopia, aiming to create a comprehensive digital collection to foster understanding between Christians and Muslims.

West African coastal communities are facing severe challenges due to rising sea levels, which are eroding land, contaminating freshwater, and displacing populations. The loss of livelihoods and cultural heritage is driving migration and increasing local unemployment, leading to social issues such as drug and alcohol abuse. Governments have primarily relied on engineering solutions like sea walls and groins, which provide short-term relief but can exacerbate erosion in neighboring areas. The situation in Ghana's Keta and Blekusu illustrates the complex trade-offs involved in these interventions.

West African coastal communities are facing severe challenges due to rising sea levels, which are eroding land, contaminating freshwater, and displacing populations. The loss of livelihoods and cultural heritage is driving migration and increasing local unemployment, leading to social issues such as drug and alcohol abuse. Governments have primarily relied on engineering solutions like sea walls and groins, which provide short-term relief but can exacerbate erosion in neighboring areas. The situation in Ghana's eastern coast, particularly in Keta and Blekusu, highlights the complex trade-offs involved in these interventions.

Indian tea pluckers, primarily women, endure harsh living and working conditions reminiscent of colonial times. Despite India's significant role in global tea production, workers face low wages, inadequate housing, and poor health facilities. The article highlights the systemic issues within the tea industry, including lack of investment, poor management, and exploitation. While some estates like Makaibari attempt social initiatives, many workers still suffer from deprivation and exploitation. The narrative underscores the urgent need for reforms and better conditions for tea workers.

The article discusses the rise of the camgirl industry, highlighting its growth due to improved internet speeds and cheaper technology. It focuses on the experiences of camgirls in Romania, particularly those working at Live Cams Mansion, and the societal perceptions of their profession. The piece details the financial benefits, the personal challenges faced by the camgirls, and the customer dynamics within the industry. It also touches on the stigma associated with camming in Romania, despite its profitability and the opportunities it provides for women to support themselves and their families.

The article explores the life and work of camgirls at Live Cams Mansion in Timisoara, Romania, an epicenter for the camming industry. It details the daily routine of these women, including one named Krina, and the lucrative nature of their work in an industry revolutionized by the internet and technology. The article discusses the societal stigma attached to camming despite its financial benefits, the psychological challenges faced by the camgirls, and the diverse clientele they serve. It also touches on the personal stories of several camgirls, their motivations for entering the industry, and the complex relationships they form with clients. The piece highlights the contrast between the camgirls' online persona and their personal aspirations, as well as the industry's impact on their lives.

The article highlights the dire working and living conditions of tea plantation workers in India, particularly in the regions of Duars and Darjeeling. Despite India's significant role in the global tea market, workers face exploitation, poor wages, and inadequate living conditions reminiscent of colonial-era practices. The piece contrasts the harsh realities of most plantations with the relatively better, yet still flawed, conditions at Makaibari. It underscores the systemic issues within the tea industry, including lack of investment, poor management, and the impact of international competition, while also touching on the efforts of NGOs and some progressive plantation owners to improve conditions.

The article highlights the devastating impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos, a lethal legacy of the Vietnam War. It details the personal suffering of victims like Buan Kham and the ongoing challenges faced by the country in clearing the contaminated areas. Despite significant financial aid from the US for UXO clearance, the article underscores the long-term human and economic toll, with many Laotians harboring deep resentment towards the US for the bombings. The narrative also touches on the historical context of the US bombing campaign and its enduring consequences on Laos's development.

Ten years after the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami, the region of Aceh, Indonesia, has undergone significant reconstruction and recovery. Survivors recount their harrowing experiences and the emotional scars that remain. The Indonesian Agency for the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction of Aceh played a crucial role in rebuilding infrastructure, while the tsunami also led to a peace agreement ending a long-standing civil war. Despite the physical recovery, challenges remain in terms of preparedness for future disasters and the psychological impact on the population. Economic empowerment programs have helped some survivors rebuild their lives, but concerns about long-term resilience persist.

On December 26, 2004, a 9.1 magnitude earthquake triggered a massive tsunami that devastated the coastlines of 15 countries around the Indian Ocean, killing approximately 280,000 people and displacing over 1.6 million. The Indonesian province of Aceh was the hardest hit, with 80% of the deaths and over half a million displaced. Ten years later, survivors recount their harrowing experiences and the emotional and material scars left by the disaster. The article features the stories of five women who survived, detailing their personal losses, the impact on their lives, and their ongoing struggles and resilience in the aftermath of one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.

In Nepal, over 600 families have lost members working on construction projects in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup. Migrant workers, including 400,000 from Nepal, face harsh conditions, with many becoming essentially enslaved, working in extreme heat without proper experience or living conditions. Despite Qatar's promises of labor reform, including the elimination of the kafala sponsorship law, conditions have not improved. The International Trade Union Confederation warns that abuses could lead to 4,000 deaths before 2022. Nepali workers are often deceived by employment agencies and trapped by debts, while their remittances are vital for Nepal's economy. FIFA has not revoked Qatar's World Cup hosting rights despite the situation being deemed 'unacceptable' by its president, Joseph Blatter.

Bangka, an island in Indonesia, is facing severe environmental degradation due to uncontrolled tin mining, both legal and illegal. The island produces a significant portion of the world's tin, essential for electronics. Despite regulations, illegal mining persists, causing environmental damage and risking miners' lives. Local authorities are accused of corruption, and international efforts to improve transparency in the tin supply chain have yet to yield significant results. The local population, including fishermen and informal miners, suffer from the adverse effects of mining, with little hope for change.

Tin mining on the Indonesian island of Bangka is causing severe environmental and social damage. Despite its small size, Bangka supplies about 30% of the world's tin, essential for electronics like smartphones, laptops, and tablets. The rising demand for these gadgets has driven tin prices up significantly. However, the mining activities are devastating the island's environment and affecting the local population.

Syrian refugees in Sweden face significant challenges in integrating into their new environment despite the country's welcoming policies. Many, like Salah Debas, struggle with unemployment and adapting to a different society. Sweden's policy grants permanent residence and citizenship to Syrian asylum seekers, but the integration process is slow, with many educated refugees taking menial jobs. The influx of refugees has also led to political tensions, with the far-right Sweden Democrats gaining support. Despite these challenges, some, like Kamal Rifai, have successfully integrated and offer hope and advice to new arrivals.