While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. Such accounts explore intricate topics including geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. While many of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. It raises a key query: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, families turn to him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation might improve. I was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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