As we consider the past year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth pieces shines. These accounts explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp satires on power. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. This prompts a pressing query: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent medical solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the events is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life might improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
