Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces emerges. Such pieces delve into intricate themes from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of what happened is still somewhat contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation could improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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