As we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles emerges. These accounts probe intricate themes from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting commentaries on power. While numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a key query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get uneasy.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a key player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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