As we look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. These accounts probe complex subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, families turn to him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich country has risen as a major actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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