While we consider the past year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth articles shines. These pieces explore multifaceted subjects from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. However, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical end – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a major force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the events is still partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life could improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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