As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. These pieces probe multifaceted themes including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. It poses a key question: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole way out of prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she really changed, and is the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, families turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might improve. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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