While we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These pieces delve into complex subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a key query: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a major player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of what happened remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life might improve. I was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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