Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. Such pieces probe multifaceted themes including political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. It raises a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may now cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our species. However, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, families turn to him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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