While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These narratives explore multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent medical end – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the events is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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