While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. These narratives delve into multifaceted subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It poses a key query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the history of our species. But, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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