As we look back on the past year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories shines. These narratives delve into multifaceted subjects including political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely rich country has become a major force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise story of what happened remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation might improve. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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