As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. These narratives probe complex topics from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This poses a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the story of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent heated controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get wary.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared 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 baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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