As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth articles emerges. These narratives explore complex themes including political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has risen as a significant force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact story of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life could change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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