As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. Such pieces explore complex themes from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with scathing satires on power. Although many of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move millions of books. This raises a key query: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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