While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories shines. These narratives probe intricate themes ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get wary.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact story of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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