While we consider the past year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. Such narratives probe intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It poses a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical end – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of the events remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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