Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. Such pieces explore complex themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This raises a key query: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter controversy 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 family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a key force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full truth of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life might improve. I was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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