As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth articles emerges. These narratives explore intricate themes including political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent 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 Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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