While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories shines. Such pieces delve into intricate topics including political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting heated argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the director's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment end – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his situation might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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