As we consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These pieces probe intricate themes from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has become a key actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation might improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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