While we consider the past year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth articles stands out. These accounts probe complex topics from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This poses a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting bitter argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened is still somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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