While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These accounts probe complex subjects including political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely rewriting the story of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, families rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a major actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US 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 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life might improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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