While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. Such pieces explore intricate topics including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key query: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape prison was to join the regime military. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the answers to who wins the global AI race.
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