While we look back on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. These accounts delve into complex themes from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the story of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of what happened remains somewhat contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the global AI race.
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