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Upon look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These accounts delve into complex themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.

A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?

Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War

The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.

A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.

A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight

One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.

A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law

A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.

Challenging a Country's Myth

A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?

The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to restore order.

Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical end – up until perhaps now.

The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of the state.

The English Professional With a Crooked Secret

With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.

The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?

A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry

Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.

Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?

The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.

A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers

When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the procedures is still somewhat contested.

A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?

A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness

As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.

A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move

In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.

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