As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These accounts explore complex topics ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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