As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories shines. These pieces probe multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his situation might change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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