While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories shines. Such pieces explore complex subjects from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on power. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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