As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives delve into multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment end – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation could improve. I was tragically wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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