Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. Such accounts probe complex topics from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is she really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has become a major player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might change for the better. I was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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