While we look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. Such accounts explore multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, families depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
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