As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. Such accounts explore multifaceted themes ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still move millions of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation might improve. I was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the answers to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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