While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories shines. Such narratives explore intricate topics including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective medical solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best journalism
