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As we consider the previous year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth pieces stands out. Such narratives explore complex subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.

A Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country

An author became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of books. This poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War

The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.

The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings

The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight

One woman was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.

A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law

A great many voters expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to international law. But, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.

Breaking a Country's Identity

A film featuring a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?

A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.

Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – up until potentially now.

The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the uppermost levels of the state.

An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side

With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get wary.

A Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?

A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle

Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?

An End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret

When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.

A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers

When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of the procedures remains partially shrouded.

The "Mozart" of the Attention Age

He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?

One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution

When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.

A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move

In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.

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