While we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. Such accounts probe complex topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely rewriting the history of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she really changed, and is the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable medical end – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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