As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. Such accounts delve into complex subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. It poses a key question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may now cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. However, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation might improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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