While we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories shines. These accounts delve into complex topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life might turn around. I was sadly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
