While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. These narratives probe intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. While several of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a key question: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult 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 played a key role in expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment end – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his life could improve. I was tragically wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
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