As we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. These narratives delve into intricate topics including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It poses a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
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?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the events is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
