As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such narratives delve into multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. While several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move millions of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment end – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation could turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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