While we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. These accounts probe intricate themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, families rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
