While we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. These pieces explore complex topics from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. This poses a key question: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – until potentially now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
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