Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces emerges. These accounts delve into complex subjects including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with sharp satires on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical end – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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