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Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles shines. These pieces delve into complex topics ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.

The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country

An author gained prominence in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a key question: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?

Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War

The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.

The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The resulting heated argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.

A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.

The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights

Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.

Challenging a Country's Self-Image

A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?

The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes

From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, people rely on him to restore normalcy.

Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until potentially now.

A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government

A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.

The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side

With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.

The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?

A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry

Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Tragic Story

How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?

An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.

A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers

When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.

A "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?

Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean

With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness

As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.

A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.

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