While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories shines. Such narratives probe intricate subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical solution – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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