While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These narratives probe complex subjects from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment solution – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a key player on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. I was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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