Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth articles emerges. These narratives explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a major player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
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