Upon consider the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable in-depth pieces stands out. Such accounts delve into multifaceted subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had committed.
A Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she really changed, and is the director's true methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the very highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
