As we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. Such accounts explore multifaceted themes from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is she really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle 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 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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