Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. These narratives probe intricate themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a key query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical solution – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented role?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. I was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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