As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives explore complex topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still move millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could improve. I was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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