While we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These accounts delve into multifaceted themes including geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a major player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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