As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. Such narratives probe complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with scathing satires on power. While numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent question: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route to escape prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life could turn around. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
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 hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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