While we reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. These accounts probe complex themes ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This raises a key query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his situation could improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
