As we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories shines. These narratives explore intricate subjects from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It raises a key question: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way out of prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the key to who wins the global AI race.
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