As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable in-depth pieces emerges. Such pieces delve into intricate subjects from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It prompts a pressing query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the history of our species. However, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical end – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich country has become a major force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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