As we consider the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. Such narratives delve into multifaceted themes from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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