As we look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth articles stands out. These narratives explore complex subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, families rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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