While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such accounts probe multifaceted topics from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent heated controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, families turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a significant force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up 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 Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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