While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories shines. Such accounts delve into multifaceted topics including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with biting commentaries on power. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she truly changed, and is the director's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment end – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
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