While we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. These pieces probe intricate themes from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with scathing satires on power. Although numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. This raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's true motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective medical end – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the very highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of what happened is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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