Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces emerges. These pieces explore multifaceted subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, families turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a key player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the answers to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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