While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. These pieces delve into multifaceted subjects including political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting satires on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This poses a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical end – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of what happened remains somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
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