As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. Such pieces explore intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp satires on power. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This raises a key query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The resulting heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated 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 shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation might improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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