While we consider the past year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories shines. Such narratives delve into intricate themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only path to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the story of our human race. However, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the full truth of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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