While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories shines. These pieces explore complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting critiques on power. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense argument has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical remedy – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life could turn around. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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