Upon reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories shines. These accounts explore intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This raises a pressing query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full story of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
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