While we consider the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories shines. Such narratives explore complex themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. While numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a key query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely rewriting the story of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable medical solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has become a key force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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