As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These accounts probe intricate themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his situation might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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