Upon look back on the past year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth pieces shines. Such narratives probe complex subjects from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a pertinent question: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's true methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, people rely on him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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