Upon look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces emerges. These pieces delve into intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It poses a key question: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a key player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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