As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. These narratives probe multifaceted subjects including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move millions of books. It raises a key question: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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