While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. Such narratives delve into complex themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she truly changed, and is the director's own methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal 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 may hold the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
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