Upon reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces stands out. These pieces probe intricate subjects from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It raises a key question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a major player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the events remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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