As we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. Such pieces delve into complex subjects including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. It prompts a key query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, families rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has become a major actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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