Upon reflect on the past year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. These pieces delve into multifaceted topics ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Although numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our human race. However, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, families turn to him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise truth of the events remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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