Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These accounts delve into multifaceted topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on power. While numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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