As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such narratives probe complex themes ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a key query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical end – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a key force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full story of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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