As we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These narratives explore multifaceted topics including political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This poses a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is she really changed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a significant player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle 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.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could turn around. I was tragically wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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