As we look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles shines. Such pieces probe complex topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It raises a pressing query: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation could improve. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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