As we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. Such narratives delve into multifaceted topics from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the story of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's true motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the events remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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