While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. Such accounts probe intricate themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a pressing query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the director's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable medical remedy – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives