As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These narratives explore intricate topics ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, people rely on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full story of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the answers to who wins the global AI race.
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