As we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces stands out. Such accounts delve into complex themes including political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of the events remains somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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