As we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. Such accounts delve into multifaceted topics including political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on power. While numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a key force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
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