As we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories shines. Such narratives probe intricate themes from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This raises a key question: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a major force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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