As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. These pieces probe complex subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. While several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It raises a key query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the story of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a key force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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