While we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. These accounts delve into intricate topics including political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still move millions of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape prison was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the secret to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful stories