Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These narratives probe intricate topics from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. This raises a key question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the story of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person really a new person, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the secret to who wins the global AI race.
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