As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These accounts probe complex topics ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key query: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a key actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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