Upon look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. These accounts probe multifaceted subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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