As we reflect on the past year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. Such pieces delve into complex topics ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a key query: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the story of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, people turn to him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has transformed into a key force on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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