As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories shines. These narratives delve into complex topics from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. While several of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This poses a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation might improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to who wins the global AI race.
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