Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth pieces stands out. Such pieces explore intricate topics ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our species. However, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical solution – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a significant force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions 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 betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life might change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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