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While we consider the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces stands out. Such narratives delve into intricate themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.

The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation

An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.

A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.

The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights

Many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.

Shattering a Country's Self-Image

A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?

A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains

From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, families depend on him to bring back peace.

Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until potentially now.

The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of government.

An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret

With his keen intellect and flawless background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.

The Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital

An incredibly rich country has become a major actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?

A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry

Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story

How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret

When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.

The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women

When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.

The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?

Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness

When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move

In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.

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