As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. These narratives probe complex topics ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. This prompts a pertinent question: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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