As we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives probe complex themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a key player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the precise nature of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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