While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. Such accounts probe intricate topics including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the nineties with biting critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the events remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
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