Upon consider the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories shines. Such accounts delve into multifaceted topics from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the story of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting heated argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, people turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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