Upon consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These accounts probe complex themes including political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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