As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. Such accounts delve into intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical end – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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