While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. Such pieces delve into complex subjects from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened remains somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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