While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories shines. Such pieces delve into intricate themes including political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the nineties with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. I was sadly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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