Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. Such accounts delve into intricate themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a key question: Has he evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is she really reformed, and is the director's own methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
