While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. These pieces probe intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich country has become a key player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life might turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the answers to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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