As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth pieces stands out. Such accounts probe multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This prompts a key query: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of prison was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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