As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives probe complex topics including geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of books. This poses a key query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, families turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could turn around. I was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
