As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives delve into multifaceted subjects including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a pressing question: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing bitter controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of what happened remains somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
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