While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories shines. Such pieces probe multifaceted topics ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Although several of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. It poses a key query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical end – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life could improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
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