As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. These pieces probe intricate themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with scathing critiques on power. Although several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is she genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has risen as a key player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could possess the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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